LOS ANGELES – With a significant task now completed, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors will make a final push to simplify their path ahead. Set to clash on April 9 (April 10 morning, Singapore time) in Los Angeles, both teams cling to slim hopes of securing a top-six position in the Western Conference, which guarantees an automatic playoff berth.
While a top-six spot is a long shot, both the Lakers (45-34) and the Warriors (43-35) have secured places in the Western Conference play-in tournament as the regular season nears its end. However, the battle for spots 7-10 remains, as teams vie for the final two positions in the traditional conference playoffs through the play-in tournament.
The Lakers missed an opportunity to gain ground on the Phoenix Suns for the No. 6 spot after a 127-117 defeat at home to the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 7. The absence of star player Anthony Davis, sidelined due to an eye injury, compounded their woes, alongside LeBron James’ absence due to illness.
Davis’ absence was deeply felt, given his pivotal contributions in previous matchups. Lakers head coach Darvin Ham emphasized his value, highlighting his impact on both offense and defense.
The availability of the Lakers’ star duo against the Warriors remains uncertain, as both players are listed as questionable.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors secured their play-in spot on April 7 following a Houston Rockets loss to the Dallas Mavericks. They followed it up with a 118-110 victory over the Utah Jazz, with Stephen Curry rested for the game.
Klay Thompson’s resurgence, marked by a 32-point performance, has buoyed the Warriors’ confidence. Despite their strong play, Thompson remains cautious, acknowledging that surpassing last season’s performance is yet to be seen.
The return of Jonathan Kuminga, contributing 21 points and 10 rebounds off the bench, further bolstered the Warriors’ lineup, although they were missing Andrew Wiggins and Dario Saric due to injury.
As the regular season draws to a close, both teams brace for a crucial showdown with playoff implications on the line.
