NBA 2018-19: Predicted Starting Lineups and Match Prediction - Golden State Warriors vs Portland Trail Blazers
The Golden State Warriors will face off against the Portland Trail Blazers in a highly intense matchup. The Warriors currently lead the four-game series 2-1 and a win here will help them clinch the series.
The Golden State Warriors' perspective
The Warriors are on a five-game win streak, with their most recent victory coming against conference rivals, Utah Jazz. It was a hard-fought game that required a complete team effort for the Warriors to get the win.
Durant scored 28 points to go along with 2 rebounds and 7 assists on an impressive 11-for-19 shooting performance, leading the Warriors to the win.
The Big 3 of the Warriors combined for 74 points, with each of them scoring over 20 points. However, Curry struggled from the three-point line and shot just 5-for-14 from distance.
Predicted Golden State Warriors starting line-up
Draymond Green (F), Kevin Durant (F), DeMarcus Cousins (C), Klay Thompson (G) and Stephen Curry (G)
The Portland Trail Blazers' perspective
The Portland Trail Blazers are having another great season and at 33-23, they are at the fourth spot in the Western Conference Standings, one spot behind the Thunder (37-19). The backcourt of Lillard and McCollum continues to shine and they are the key reason why the team is once again playoff-bound.
Lillard is having a sensational season, averaging 26.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game and McCollum has also been impressive, averaging 21.1 points per game.
Predicted Portland Trail Blazers starting line-up
Maurice Harkless (F), Al-Farouq Aminu (F), Jusuf Nurkic (C), CJ McCollum (G) and Damian Lillard (G)
How the things might unfold
With two powerhouses of the Western Conference going up against each other, it is surely going to be a feast for basketball fans. The Blazers have lost two straight games and are low on confidence right now. However, playing at the Moda Centre might give them a boost, but it is unlikely to be enough to get past the Warriors.
Prediction
Warriors to pick up a narrow victory.