The Golden State Warriors haven’t looked like the defending champions for most of the season. However, they certainly did in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. The Warriors defeated the third-seeded Sacramento Kings thanks in large part to Steve Curry’s 50-point drop in their Game 7 victory.
Now, the Warriors will have a home advantage against the Los Angeles Lakers in the West Semifinals despite being the sixth seed. That’s a huge deal for the Warriors, who have been a much better team at home than on the road this season.
Tied at 1-1, Golden State can take any advantage they can get against the Lakers, who have been on alert since the trade deadline and could run into some trouble. With that being said, let’s take a look at the Warriors’ expected starting lineup for Game 3.
Predicted Warriors starting lineup vs. Lakers 3:
- Stephen Curry
- Clay Thompson
- Andrew Wiggins
- Draymond Green
- Kevon Looney
After personal injuries and absences kept Golden State’s favorite starting lineup apart, they’re showing their potential. Of course, they won the championship last season, but shooting guard Klay Thompson has been much better this season than last.
As did quarterback Kevon Looney, who came off the bench in Game 2 but must start in Game 3. He’s been absolutely dominant in the offensive glass this season, giving the Warriors second chance after second chance. Not to be outdone, Carey, even at 34, is still as dominant as ever. Meanwhile, Draymond Green managed to redeem himself after being suspended in Game 3 of the first round against the Kings.
Lakers expected starting lineup for Warriors 3:
- Angelo Russell
- Austin Reeves
- LeBron James
- Jared Vanderbilt
- Anthony Davis
Unlike Golden State, the Lakers’ starting lineup is much newer. Russell and Vanderbilt were purchased before the trade deadline, joining Reeves, James and Davis in the team’s starting five. So far, it has been shown to be effective.
Both Russell and Reeves had several big games against the Grizzlies, helping the Lakers make history. In addition, Vanderbilt is a very versatile defender, while both James and Davis still play like the team’s best players. Altogether, this starting lineup gives the Lakers enough ball-handling, shooting, play-making, and defense to rival any team, including the Warriors.
All in all, this West Semifinals series has the potential to be great considering the star power of each team. Considering how well both teams have played against the higher seeds, and how talented their starting lineups are, this could be a drama-filled seven-game series.