For the second time in less than a week, the Sacramento Kings and the Golden State Warriors will face off in an intriguing Pacific division showdown, this time in the Bay Area. Will the Kings light the beam away from home? Or, will the Warriors defeat Sacramento again?
Catch this game live on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 10 AM, Manila time
Away: LA Clippers (3-1/0-1 Away)
Projected Starting Five:
- Russell Westbrook
- Paul George
- Norman Powell
- Kawhi Leonard
- Ivica Zubac
The Clippers made a blockbuster trade for James Harden, but he’s a ways off from makings his debut, with rumors pointing to their November 7 game against the Knicks. In the meantime, they’ll likely be playing with their normal trio of big names in Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.
While it’s technically an “away” game, the Clippers play in the same building as the Lakers. They may not have as many fans cheering them on, but they’re 3-0 in games in their home arena so far this season. George is averaging 27.3 points per game, while Leonard is average 23 per contest. Westbrook, on the other hand, is still filling the stat sheet with 11.3 points, 7.3 rebounds and 6.7 assists.
While they may not have an inside presence like Anthony Davis, the Clippers’ two superstars should also prove tough for the Lakers’ back line to handle. Also, it’ll be interesting to see if the Clippers decide to limit minutes or even sit one of their two stars – considering that NBA higher ups will be keeping a close eye on this game.
Home: LA Lakers (2-2/2-0 Home)
Projected Starting Five:
- Austin Reaves
- D’Angelo Russell
- LeBron James
- Taurean Prince
- Anthony Davis
The Lakers have traded wins and losses so far, with both of their defeats being away from home against the Sacramento Kings and Denver Nuggets.
They’ll be looking forward to trying to get their first consecutive win of the season and they saw a monster game from Anthony Davis in their previous contest against the Orlando Magic. Davis finished with 26 points, 19 rebounds, five assists, a steal and three blocks to lead the Lakers to a close 106-103 win. The Clippers lack the personnel to hold him down, so if the Lakers are to win, he has to have another big performance.
LeBron James is still capable of great things, but he no longer has the same gas tank that he once had. James has looked to conserver his energy for fourth quarters lately, so it will be interesting to see what Davis can do over the first three.
PREDICTIONS:
Spread: The Clippers (+5) cover the spread.
Over/Under: The total (225.5) hits the Over.