Analyzing each Golden State Warriors potential play-in opponent

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers is guarded by Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half at Staples Center on January 18, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers is guarded by Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half at Staples Center on January 18, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Potential play-in opponent: Dallas Mavericks

The Mavs, who are white-hot and have a cakewalk schedule to boot down the stretch, are unlikely to slip to the 7 seed. They’re two games up on the field to stay out of the extra tourney.

Considering how they also tend to blow out this current iteration of the Warriors, that seems like a blessing.

When playing in the 7-8, you want at least a puncher’s chance of avoiding that second potential loss. Dallas at full, or even half strength, presents the most difficult matchup at the moment.

Avoiding that matchup bodes very well for the Dubs, and considering the Mavs have games down the stretch against New Orleans and Memphis, a continuation of their hot streak seems beneficial for both parties.