NBA Playoff Preview: Can Golden State Win On The Road?

Many did not expect the outcome of many of these series, but that's what the playoffs are all about, it's an intense competition with lots of back and forth. With the importance of game 5 in the postseason, these games will most likely be the final blow.

Grizzlies vs. Lakers

Going into this series, Memphis were expected not to dominate but at least put up a fight. After a disappointing loss to LA in game 1, they managed to secure their second home game, but it might have been for the worst. After winning game 2, the Grizzlies thought to themselves to talk trash about the Lakers. Most notably when Dillon Brooks called out LeBron for being old. Fortunately, the backflash backfired onto the team as Lebron took charge of their last two games. Los Angeles is LeBron's city now, and he showed us why.

Game 4 was one for the ages, as LeBron James put up 20 points, 22 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 blocks to win the game by 6 points. They currently lead the series 3-1 and are expected to secure the series on the road, in Memphis. Yes, Morant decided to become an acrobat and just jump into defenders. He didn’t even look like he tried to win, it just seemed like he was trying to get a highlight reel. Maybe Ja is not safe in the west after all.

Austin Reaves has also been an integral part of this Lakers team in both the regular and postseason. Averaging 16 points per game and 3 assists, Reaves managed to win game 1 for the Lakers. An important win to set the tone in the series, and boy was the tone set.

Predictions:

Outcome - Lakers to win
Odds - 2.45

Kings vs Warriors

On the other side of California, we have the Kings taking on the Warriors after losing two consecutive away games. Golden State does not do well on the road, and it showed in both first games. The Kings won in a dominant manner, but a Warrior comeback was imminent.

As the Warriors came back for game 3 and 4, they could not afford another loss. Now tied 2-2, we finally have a series as we go onto game 5. Game 5 is a decisive game in the playoffs, since being only one game away from victory can swing the mood of each team sideways. Historically, the winners of game 5 go on to win the series, in fact the total record for game 5 winners in their series is 147-33. This was showcased in the 2022 Finals as the Warriors took game 5 after being tied 2-2. The Warriors went on to win the Finals but who knows what would have happened if the Celtics managed to win game 5. This is why game 5 is so important.

The Warriors cannot win on the road, at least not this season. Chase Center is their home and it shows, as not many other teams can dominate too well at home, while being so disappointing on the road. The Kings though are the best team on the road, and it showed in game 4, as the warriors won by only 1 point.

Headed to Sacramento, this series game should be one for the games, as the winner will most likely go on to win the series.

Predictions:

Outcome - Kings to win
Odds - 2.50