Golden State (44-31) at LA Lakers (46-29)
- When: Apr 3 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- TV: TNT
NBA Game Preview: Warriors vs. Lakers
Spread: Lakers -1.5 | Total: 229.5
Golden State Warriors (42-31 SU, 37-35-1 ATS)
The Warriors are peaking at the right time. Since acquiring Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline, Golden State has caught fire, going 19-5 over their last 24 games. Butler has seamlessly fit into the system, bringing much-needed two-way play and leadership, while Steph Curry continues to defy age with vintage performances.
Curry is coming off a monster 52-point outing in Memphis, including 12 made threes, and continues to be one of the most lethal scoring threats in the league. Expect another heavy usage game here with the stakes rising. Butler added 27 points in that win and is averaging 17.5 PPG in a Warriors jersey.
Draymond Green is coming off a triple-double, and his playmaking continues to be a stabilizing force. However, Golden State may once again be without Jonathan Kuminga (pelvis) and Gary Payton II (thumb), who are both nursing injuries.
Key Player Props to Watch:
Steph Curry Over 25.5 Points: In a potential playoff preview, Curry likely plays extended minutes with high usage.
Jimmy Butler Over 5.5 Assists: With Curry off the floor, the offense flows through Butler—he’s had 6+ assists in 3 of his last 4.
Los Angeles Lakers (44-28 SU, 34-37-1 ATS)
The Lakers are in playoff push mode, and they’re finally near full strength. Luka Doncic has averaged 27.2 PPG since arriving from Dallas and is expected to play despite tweaking his elbow in the win over Houston.
LeBron James remains the heartbeat of the team—even in limited scoring, his impact was felt in the form of rebounds, assists, and leadership. The Lakers’ bench stepped up big time against the Rockets, with Dorian Finney-Smith and Gabe Vincent both dropping 20 points and hitting six threes each.
The Lakers have won all three meetings against the Warriors this season, and they’re well aware of how tight the standings are. A win here helps them avoid falling into the play-in scenario.
Key Player Props to Watch:
LeBron James Over 7.5 Assists: He’s facilitating more down the stretch, especially with Doncic initiating the offense.
Dorian Finney-Smith Over 1.5 Threes Made: He’s trending upward with volume and confidence from the perimeter.
Expert Prediction & Pick
This one has playoff intensity written all over it. Golden State is red-hot but winless against the Lakers this season. Meanwhile, Los Angeles is playing with urgency and boasts elite star power with Doncic and James both active.
Final Score Prediction: Lakers 115, Warriors 111
Best Bet: Lakers -1.5
Lean: Under 229.5 – Both teams could tighten up defensively with so much at stake.
Keep an eye on injury news before locking in any bets, especially with Curry and Doncic both carrying minor knocks.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
