The Golden State Warriors are on the verge of clinching a top-six seed in the Western Conference and avoiding the play-in tournament after their 119-97 win over the Sacramento Kings. Despite resting four of their top six players, the Kings were no match for the Warriors, who now sit at fifth in the West. A win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday will clinch a top-six seed for Golden State. However, a loss could see them drop anywhere from sixth to eighth in the standings, depending on the results of other teams over the weekend.
Warriors Must Beat Blazers to Clinch Top-Six Seed
Golden State Warriors have had an up-and-down season, often playing down to their competition. However, with a top-six seed and a chance to avoid the play-in tournament on the line, the Warriors will need to bring their A-game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday. Portland has been tanking shamelessly, resting key players like Damian Lillard, and the Warriors are favored to win. A win on Sunday would clinch a top-six seed for Golden State, while a loss could see them drop to the eighth seed.
Pelicans Win Benefits Warriors’ Playoff Hopes
The New Orleans Pelicans’ win over the New York Knicks on Friday delayed the Warriors’ ability to clinch a top-six seed but may ultimately benefit Golden State’s playoff hopes. The win means that the Los Angeles Clippers need to win out to avoid the play-in tournament. If the Clippers win out and the Warriors beat the Blazers, the Clippers will finish fifth, and the Dubs will finish sixth. If the Clippers lose one game and the Warriors win, Golden State finishes fifth, with sixth up in the air.
