2023 NBA Apr 17 Betting Predictions
The NBA Playoffs are here! We have the West Play-In Tournament matchups up first. The Lakers and Pels will aim for the 7th seed in the West. Meanwhile, it's the Warriors up against the Kings in what should be a cracking contest.
Los Angeles Lakers (8th) at New Orleans Pelicans (7th)
The Lakers wrapped up the regular season with two wins in a row, they took down the Pels by 16 points on Monday in New Orleans. Anthony Davis led the charge with 30 points, while James put up 28 points, shooting 11-20 from the field and 6-6 from the free-throw line. He also grabbed 11 rebounds, dished out 17 assists, got one block and snagged five steals in 38 minutes during Sunday's 124-108 victory over the Pelicans. They've been scoring an average of 120 points in their last five games and they've won five straight road games while going 8-2 in their last ten overall. They've also won their last two matchups against the Pels by more than 10 points. Davis, who had some back issues, confirmed after the win over the Pelicans that he's all set to hit the court for Wednesday's rematch in the Western Conference Play-In Tournament.
The Pelicans winning streak came to an end last time out against the Lakers on Monday, losing by 16 points. CJ McCollum managed 25 points in the loss. There's a concerning trend at home, having lost the last six games and only winning three out of their last ten overall. However, New Orleans has been performing well, winning four out of their last five games. Ingram has returned from injury but played only 23 minutes on Monday, so he should be fresh for the upcoming games. Zion struggled on Monday, shooting just 4 of 13 and committing four turnovers. He needs to step up and dominate against Davis in this matchup. Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson both scored 26 points in their 129-109 victory over the Lakers at home back in January.
In 4 out of the last 5 games between the Pelicans and the Lakers, the total score has gone Over. The same trend has occurred in four out of their last five home games for the Pels against the Lakers. Expecting another high scoring affair with the likes of LeBron, Davis and McCollum in good shooting form.
Stadium Record
New Orleans have lost 6 in a row on their home court.
Head to Head Record
In the last 10, the Lakers are 6-4.
Best Bet
Golden State Warriors (10th) at Sacramento Kings (9th)
For the Golden State Warriors (10th) facing off against the Kings (9th), the Warriors have wrapped up the regular season with an impressive 10-2 record in their last 12 games. They're coming off a 7-point home victory over the Jazz, even without Curry, where Klay Thompson put up 25 points. Curry is set to return for this crucial matchup, having scored 29 points or more in 4 out of 5 games against the Kings this season. Additionally, Golden State has a good recent record on the road, winning 8 out of their last 10 away games. Their offence has been potent, averaging 116.8 points scored and allowing just 110.4 points in their last 5 games.
As for the Kings, they've had a rough patch, winning only 2 out of their last 7 games. However, they managed to dominate the Trail Blazers with a massive 121-82 victory on Monday, although it was in a game that didn't hold much significance. They're at a 5-5 record in their last 10 home games. The Kings have a recent history of success against the Warriors, having won their last two encounters with scores of 134-133 and 124-123. De'Aaron Fox has been instrumental in those wins, scoring 29 points in both games. However, they'll be missing Malik Monk and Kevin Huerter for this matchup. Their defence will be a key factor and they're only allowing an average of 102.8 points in their last 5 games. The Kings will be looking to continue their winning streak against the Warriors and keep their season alive.
The last 3 meetings have been a 1 pt margin so I think picking a head-to-head winner is a tough bet. So I like the look of Curry's form against the Kings. He's averaging 31 pts in his last 4 against them.
Stadium Record
Sacramento are 5-5 in their last 10 at home. Golden State are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
Head to Head Record
The Warriors have won 6 of the last 10 meetings.
Best Bet
