NBA Preseason 2023: The starting lineups for the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers preseason matchup have been disclosed. This marquee matchup is eagerly anticipated due to the fact that both teams are considered to be among the best in the Western Conference.
The Warriors and the Lakers will meet for the second time this week in this preseason contest. In their initial meeting, the Warriors defeated the Lakers, who were without LeBron James, 125-108.
Here are the starters for both teams:
NBA Preseason 2023: Compared starting lineups of the Lakers and the Warriors
Draymond Green will be unavailable against the Lakers tonight. Nevertheless, it is expected that every other crucial player for the Warriors will be present at the game in Los Angeles. As per Steve Kerr’s statement, there are intentions to marginally augment the starting lineup’s minutes in comparison to the opening game of the preseason.
As a result, the Warriors possess a more formidable starting lineup. Four of their players, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, and Kevon Looney, are accustomed to playing together. Additionally, they have Chris Paul, whose floor general abilities are beyond reproach. On the contrary, the Lakers are presently in the process of integrating multiple newcomers into their overall team cohesion.
Ready for more@Oracle || Game Ready pic.twitter.com/E0R0k53sZg
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) October 11, 2023
The inaugural confrontation of the season occurs during this preseason matchup between LeBron James and Curry. James abstained from attending the initial Lakers-Warriors match. In addition, Anthony Davis was not present when the Brooklyn Nets hosted the contest.
Darvin Ham announced prior to tonight’s contest that Jarred Vanderbilt, Cam Reddish, and Gabe Vincent will not be in the lineup for the Lakers. Vincent is currently in recovery from a back strain, whereas Vanderbilt and Reddish have been sidelined with ankle injuries.
In the 2023 Western Conference Semifinals, Vanderbilt averaged 3.5 rebounds, 3.3 points, and 0.8 steals in 6 games against the Warriors.
As this contest is in the preseason, it is expected that the top players will predominantly participate in the first half. During the first two quarters, spectators can anticipate a playoff-like atmosphere as seasoned veterans compete against one another.
It will be fascinating to observe Davis’ performance in the postseason, as he demonstrated dominance against the Warriors in the previous year. On the other hand, the Lakers, who are still in the process of developing their chemistry, may find it difficult to deal with the versatile backcourt and roster of extraordinary playmakers that the Warriors possess.
The spotlight will likely be redirected towards the reserves during the second half, providing them with a chance to demonstrate their abilities.
ESPN’s new-look broadcast crew will make their debut tonight for Warriors vs. Lakers 🔥 pic.twitter.com/uanIkSVd4L
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 13, 2023
Additionally, Mike Breen will be a part of ESPN’s redesigned broadcast staff at the event. Doc Rivers, former head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, and Doris Burke.