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Tuesday 4/1/25 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc
NBA (521) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS (522) MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
Take: (521) GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
The Golden State Warriors (43-31) visit the Memphis Grizzlies (44-30) in a pivotal Western Conference showdown with playoff implications hanging in the balance. Both teams are closely matched in the standings, but they enter the contest with very different momentum. Golden State is peaking at the right time, having won 16 of their last 19 games. Their recent blowout win over San Antonio, where they scored 148 points, demonstrated the depth and explosiveness of their offense. Young guard Brandin Podziemski has emerged as a steady scoring option, and the midseason addition of Jimmy Butler has added a defensive edge and veteran leadership. However, forward Jonathan Kuminga is questionable for this matchup due to a pelvic contusion, which could impact their rotation and defensive matchups. Memphis, on the other hand, is in a rough patch, dropping five of their last six games. They enter this game on the second night of a back-to-back after facing Boston on Monday, raising questions about fatigue and focus. Adding to the uncertainty, the Grizzlies recently parted ways with head coach Taylor Jenkins. Midseason coaching changes often create turbulence, and Memphis may still be adjusting to new systems and expectations. Memphis holds the edge offensively, averaging 122.2 points per game—second-best in the league. Golden State averages 113.4, ranking 18th. The Warriors are much stronger defensively, allowing only 110.7 points per game (8th), compared to Memphis’ 117.1 (25th). Golden State’s balance, veteran savvy, and defensive edge give them a favorable profile entering this matchup. They’re playing confident, cohesive basketball and will look to exploit Memphis’ vulnerability in transition and on the defensive end. I'm taking the Warriors here on the road on Tuesday.
NBA (519) PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS VS (520) ATLANTA HAWKS
Take: (520) ATLANTA HAWKS
The Portland Trail Blazers (32-43) travel to Atlanta to take on the Hawks (36-38) in a crucial late-season contest. With both teams still in the hunt for postseason positioning, this matchup could have serious implications as the regular season nears its conclusion. Portland comes into this game on a four-game losing streak and sits 12th in the Western Conference, trailing the final play-in spot by 4.5 games. Their recent loss to the Knicks highlighted their ongoing offensive struggles, despite a 33-point outing from Deni Avdija. The Blazers average 110.7 points per game while allowing 114.4. Their shooting has been inconsistent, hitting just 45.1% from the field and 34.6% from beyond the arc. Injuries have been a major storyline, with key contributors like Deandre Ayton, Scoot Henderson, Robert Williams III, and others unavailable. Jerami Grant is doubtful, and Anfernee Simons is questionable, which could further diminish their scoring potential. Atlanta is trending in the opposite direction, winning eight of their last 12 games. They currently sit seventh in the Eastern Conference and are closing in on a potential playoff spot. The Hawks' recent 145-124 victory over Milwaukee showcased their offensive firepower, led by Zaccharie Risacher’s 36 points and a stellar 19-point, 19-assist performance from Trae Young. The Hawks rank fifth in the NBA in scoring at 117.9 points per game but give up 119.5 points on the defensive end. While they're also managing injuries — with Clint Capela, Jalen Johnson, and others sidelined — the potential return of Trae Young (probable) could provide a significant boost. Atlanta’s high-octane offense may overwhelm Portland’s weakened and struggling defense. Atlanta at home here today and with momentum and a powerful offense. They face a struggling Portland team that looks out of the race. Play Atlanta.
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