Golden State Warriors: 3 Keys to winning Play-In Tournament

Golden State Warriors’ key: Favorable matchups

First and foremost, the Golden State Warriors will hope for a favorable matchup in the Play-In. This means one of two things: Either facing easier opponents or remaining in the seven-eight game — therefore having additional room for error.

The Dubs sit in eighth place currently, with fewer than a game separating them and the two lower seeds. It goes without saying that staying in the seven-eight game and ensuring they only have to win one-of-two potential games is the better option.

However, the Dubs could also feel content battling two weaker opponents rather than taking on the defending champions who hold the seventh seed. No one is signing up for a single-elimination meeting with the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dubs would likely prefer to avoid them at all costs.

In this event, the Warriors would face either the Memphis Grizzlies or the San Antonio Spurs, both of which are lesser opponents in comparison to LeBron James and Anthony Davis. This doesn’t mean the Spurs or Grizzlies are anything to scoff at, but they are easier foes nonetheless.

Thankfully, the Dubs will have a chance to determine their own fate here. It makes more sense for them to close the season out strong and remain in the top half of the tourney. Even if they do lose to the Lakers, they’ll get another shot at redemption by beating one of the weaker opponents anyway.