The fallen giants, the Golden State Warriors, will take on the Los Angeles Lakers who are aiming to build a dynasty after winning the NBA Championship last season, much like the Warriors had a few years ago. This contest perfectly resembles a shift in power in not just the Western Conference, but the whole league.

Date and Time: January 18, 2021, 7pm PT

Venue: Staples Center, Los Angeles

Preview | Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers are continuing on the same path from where they left in 2020. While they were hungover from the jubilant celebrations on the opening day against the Clippers, they quickly bounced back and now it’s business as usual for them.

The Lakers comfortably sit atop the standings in the West. Yet again, LeBron James is leading the charge for them with 24.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game.

Though they lost the likes of Rondo, Howard, and McGee in the off-season, the Lakers upgraded these roster spots with the additions of Schroder, Harrell, and Gasol. And now they look stronger than ever.

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Starting 5 for the Los Angeles Lakers

Guard – Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Guard – Dennis Schröder

Center – Marc Gasol

Forward – LeBron James

Forward – Anthony Davis

Preview | Golden State Warriors

It is a sorry tale for the Warriors who find themselves barely in the Playoffs position. Before the season, many were anointing them the fiercest challengers to the Lakers’ throne, but Klay’s unfortunate injury has wreaked havoc on all of their title ambitions.

Rather, they have to rely on Steph Curry to step up night in, night out without his other half. He is averaging 28.4 points at a 37.6% 3-point shooting. He is battling with LeBron for the MVP title and tonight he will be playing with some extra fire in his belly.

Starting 5 for the Golden State Warriors

Guard – Kelly Oubre Jr

Guard – Steph Curry

Center – James Wiseman

Forward – Draymond Green

Forward – Andrew Wiggins

Predictions | Lakers vs Warriors

Since the team from LA is on a 5-game winning streak, it is vital to respect them as the favorites for this clash. However, you cannot discount Draymond Green and Curry from the Warriors’ ranks.

The Lakers will need to bring out their A-game in defense, as they have for the most part of the season, to keep Steph quiet and ensure that LeBron can dominate with the ball on the other end. If this happens, they should emerge victorious.