No strangers to each other, the Warriors and Lakers faced off twice in the preseason, also playing in a close, hard-fought classic in last season’s play-in tournament.
With both teams aiming to become powerhouses in the difficult and ultra-competitive Western Conference, this has the potential to become a fierce rivalry across the NBA landscape.
The Golden State Warriors kick off their 2021-22 regular season with a matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on Tuesday night.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Warriors: Stephen Curry, Jordan Poole, Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, Kevon Looney
Lakers: Russell Westbrook, Kent Bazemore, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, DeAndre Jordan
The Lakers remain tight lip on who will start alongside their new trio of James, Davis, and Westbrook. Jordan started in their last preseason game against the Kings, however, don’t be surprised if veteran Carmelo Anthony starts which would move Davis to the center position.
On the other hand, the Warriors seem settled on this lineup given the extraordinary form of Jordan Poole and the continued absence of James Wiseman.
Game styles
Although both teams finished top five in defensive rating last season, don’t expect this to be a low-scoring encounter. The Warriors finished the preseason second in points per game, whilst the Lakers are still trying to build chemistry on both sides of the ball.
Still, look for the Lakers to try and slow the pace, reducing the Warriors’ fast break opportunities and three-point attempts in transition.
Form
The two teams couldn’t come into this game under more contrasting circumstances. The Warriors looked fantastic for large parts of the preseason, compiling a 5-0 record thanks to a number of impressive individual performances.
For the Lakers, they went winless through six preseason games, including two losses to the Warriors.
Key Matchup – Draymond Green v Anthony Davis
With Davis likely to spend large chunks of time at the center position, it will be interesting to see what kind of lineups Steve Kerr utilizes.
In the play-in game last season, Green put on a defensive masterclass against Davis in the first half. If he can do the same again across a four-quarter performance, it would go a long way to the Warriors completing an upset victory.
Outcome
Whilst I’ll stop short of predicting a Warriors victory, this has certainly become a very winnable game for them.
It really depends on what kind of weight you put into preseason performances. Formline suggests the Warriors will win, however, bookmakers and much of the general public believe the Lakers class will prevail.
Regardless, Dubs fans should be disappointed if their team can’t take advantage of a new-look Laker roster still trying to find chemistry.