The Los Angeles Clippers (49-32) are set to face the Golden State Warriors (48-33) in a crucial regular-season finale. The Clippers are on a strong winning streak, having won their last seven games, including a narrow 101-100 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Friday. Meanwhile, the Warriors are coming off a 103-86 win against the Portland Trail Blazers in their recent game.
This game has significant playoff implications for both teams. A win for the Clippers would secure them the fifth seed in the playoffs, and they could potentially climb to the fourth seed if the Denver Nuggets lose to the Houston Rockets. For the Warriors, a victory would allow them to avoid the play-in tournament. Even with a loss, Golden State could still clinch the sixth seed if the Minnesota Timberwolves also lose. However, if the Warriors lose and Minnesota wins, Golden State will be hosting a play-in game.
Golden State is currently favored by 3 points in the odds, with the over/under for total points set at 217.5.
Keys for Clippers Victory
James Harden remains a key player for the Clippers, demonstrating his ball-handling and scoring abilities. He leads the team with 22.6 points and 8.7 assists per game, while also averaging 5.8 rebounds. Harden has been in excellent form, scoring over 20 points and providing over 10 assists in his last four games, including a 35-point, 10-assist performance against the Rockets on April 9.
Norman Powell also provides a significant offensive contribution for the Clippers, capable of both driving to the basket and shooting from beyond the arc. He averages 21.9 points per game and shoots 42.2% from 3-point range. In the game against the San Antonio Spurs on April 8, Powell scored 25 points, grabbed five rebounds, and dished out three assists, while hitting 3 of 7 three-point attempts.
Keys for Warriors Victory
Steph Curry is expected to be pivotal for the Warriors as they aim for a strong playoff push. His ability to stretch the floor is crucial for Golden State`s offense. Curry is averaging 24.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6 assists per game and has been shooting efficiently from three-point range this month, at 40%. On April 9 against the Spurs, Curry scored 30 points, secured eight rebounds, and provided three assists, making five three-pointers.
Another important player for the Warriors is Jimmy Butler, a strong two-way player who adds scoring and defensive presence. In April, Butler has been averaging 18.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 2.7 steals per game. He has scored 20 or more points in his last two games, including a game where he recorded 24 points, five rebounds, seven assists, and two steals.
Game Prediction
Predictions suggest a high-scoring game with a projected total of 221 combined points, leaning towards the Over. It is suggested to check further analysis for specific spread picks.
Jasper Hawthorne