On April 17, Beijing time, the NBA play-offs were rekindled: Lakers vs. Pelicans, Warriors vs. Kings
When the hands of the clock pointed to April 17, the flames of the NBA play-offs were lit again. On this suspenseful night, the Lakers will travel to the Pelicans' home court, and the Warriors will also set foot on Kings territory for a thrilling battle.
First, let's focus on the Lakers vs. Pelicans matchup. On the regular season stage, the Lakers are eighth in the West with a 47-35 record, while the Pelicans are close behind with 49-33. While the two teams met four times in the regular season, with the Lakers holding the edge with a three-one record, the playoff arena is always full of uncertainties, and a win or loss in any one game could change the situation.
The Lakers' James and Bushy Eyebrows are the absolute core of the team, and their play will directly determine the fate of the team. However, injury issues have been a concern for the Lakers. In the most recent game, Bushy Eyebrow left the court early due to back spasms, which undoubtedly cast a shadow over the Lakers' playoff journey. The Pelicans, on the other hand, are fully fit and eager to make the playoff game and fight for a playoff spot.
The other play-off game is the Warriors vs. the Kings. The Warriors are in 10th place in the West with a 46-36 record, while the Kings are close behind with the same record. The two teams played to a draw in the regular season, which shows that the two sides are equal in strength and the outcome is unpredictable.
The Warriors' Curry and Thompson are the team's scoring weapons, and their play will determine the Warriors' offensive firepower. However, the Warriors have struggled against the Thunder this season, which has made them even more eager to prove themselves in the playoffs. The Kings, on the other hand, have the likes of Fox and Barnes who are eager to show their quality in the play-in tournament.
In terms of injuries, the Warriors' Payton II will miss the game, which will undoubtedly have a certain impact on the team's defense. The Kings will also face a staffing dilemma, with the absence of Huerter and Monk greatly reducing the team's strength. But either way, both teams will be going all out and fighting for a playoff spot.
ESPN made predictions on the outcome of the two play-off matches, and while they gave a difference in win percentage, the outcome of the game ultimately depends on the performance on the field. Both teams have a lot of experience and quality in the game, and both have the potential to pull off wonders in the play-offs. Therefore, we are looking forward to exciting games and unexpected results from these two play-off matches.