Welcome to my NBA picks series. Let's talk about the big game tonight Warriors vs Spurs, by analyzing both teams recent performance and predict the score!
The defending champs, GSW, take on Greg Popovich and his Spurs on a nationally televised spectacle. The Warriors have been in a bit of a slump lately, having lost two of their last three games. They were beaten soundly by OKC in a game that might preview their match up in the post season. In both lost games the Warriors were very sloppy with the ball, committing a combined 39 turnovers while shooting well below their average from three point range. As far as standings go, the Warriors still lead the West, but are dangerously close to losing that number one position. The Rockets are just one game behind, and can take the lead if GS makes any wrong move. It will very hard for the defending champs in the post season if they loose their number one seeding, because there is real competition waiting for them. They have a negative record this regular season vs teams like Houston or OKC. Hence, I believe Kerr will give them the proper motivation here.
This has been a very unlucky team. Since losing Leonard in that first game against the Warriors during the playoffs last year, everything seems to have gone wrong for the Spurs. Tonight, they play without Leonard, Murray, Gay and Parker and thus face a tremendously uphill battle against a team that is looking to rebound after some poor performances. It's really impressive how well Greg Popovich makes use of the little resources he has available. The Spurs are third in this very competitive Western Conference, but have lost some steam in their last ten games, going 5/5. They have also lost two of their last three games, but have rebounded nicely against Phoenix, handing them their worst loss in history. Aldridge and Patty Mills are two of the players to look for tonight. Aldridge has really stepped up this season to fill the void left by Leonard.
The Warriors have the best offense in the league and the highest number of assists per game. The key stat for them tonight will be their turnovers. San Antonio will take advantage of every loose ball the Warriors will provide. Conversely, the Spurs have the best defense in the league, allowing on average just 97.7 points per game. In their previous meeting this season, GS won 112-92. It was a game played in San Antonio, where GS pulled away in the second half.
I believe this game will belong to the Warriors in a decisive manner, 15+ point differential. The Warriors play at home, after losing by twenty to OKC and they will surely play very motivated. The Spurs are missing key pieces and I just don't believe they will be able to contain GS tonight.
This is all for today, I wish you all good luck. Please bet responsively and if you are interested in what I've been up to, check my blog!
