Portland's new guard pairing gives it several ways to reach the paint, while Phoenix can answer with wing scoring and pressure on the ball. The question is how each side protects a possession after its first shot or first pass. The Lakers have two proven lead creators and a bigger rim target, while Golden State can use Curry's movement and Green's passing to make that defense work across the floor. Both games have credible routes to tight final stretches.
Phoenix's Booker and Green played alongside Brooks and Bridges in its final exhibition, and Ighodaro or Maluach can cover different center duties while Mark Williams remains out. Portland's Morant–Lillard pair and Clingan are formidable, but its last game also gave away turnovers and fast-break chances. Sharpe remains out, and Avdija became questionable after playing in Portland's finale; Phoenix's Kennard is questionable after missing its finale, while its main perimeter group did play together. Phoenix's wing creation and center alternatives give it a strong route to stay in the game through Portland's guard runs. That's why I'm siding with Phoenix.
The Lakers can use Dončić and Reaves around Kessler, who played substantial minutes against Denver. Golden State's latest group had Curry playing, Green distributing and Lendeborg adding a second scoring and passing route; Horford stretched the floor as well. Podziemski is now out after playing in that finale, while Curry was reported probable after his ankle concern; Butler and Moody had already missed that game. Golden State's pressure and Curry–Green actions can answer Lakers runs even if Los Angeles controls parts of the game. That's why I'm siding with Golden State to stay close.
