Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals tip off as the Warriors host the Trail Blazers as 7.5-point favorites despite being without Kevin Durant for the first game. We break down the odds and give our predictions and best bets for this matchup between the best in the west. **video
PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS AT GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (Golden State -7.5, 220.5)
QUICK HITTER
Over the most recent three games, the Blazers have gotten off to slow starts in the first quarter, averaging only 22.7 points per game, while giving up 31.3.
The Warriors are ranked second in first-quarter points per game at home averaging 30.3, and look like a good bet to cover the spread in the first quarter.
PREDICTION: First quarter spread Golden State -3
FIRST HALF BET
In the most recent three games between these two teams, the average score at halftime has been 55.3 to 55 in favor of Portland. Despite those low scoring games, the last game between them saw 125 points scored in the first half as both teams eclipsed 60 points.
The Blazers have only managed 52.1 first-half ppg on the road, seven fewer than they average at home.
PREDICTION: First half spread Golden State -4
TEAM/PLAYER PROP
Portland’s CJ McCollum has scored 30 or more points in back to back games. Historically he has not done well versus the Warriors shooting 8-of-19, 7-of-22, 6-of-17, and 5-of-13 in their four meetings during the regular season. Although he has been a key player for the Blazers’ success this postseason, there are definitely games where he struggles to find his shot and this total is just too high for a player averaging 21 points, four boards and three dimes in the regular season.
PREDICTION: Points, rebounds, assists total - CJ McCollum Under 32.5
FULL GAME TOTAL
The Over has cashed in 12 of the most recent 18 in the head-to-head between these two teams. Despite that number, the Blazers have shot just 41 percent from the floor over their most recent three games. Neither team plays at a particularly fast pace, and without Kevin Durant who is the postseason’s leading scorer, look for another lower scoring game.
PREDICTION: Under 220.5
FULL GAME SIDE
It's difficult to ignore the success the Warriors have had versus Portland at Oracle posting a 13-1 straight up record. The Warriors have averaged 117.9 points on their home court and were able to put up 118 points on the road versus a tough Rockets defense without Kevin Durant.
Look for Golden State to take care of business at home, and cover as 7.5-point home favorites.
PREDICTION: Warriors -7.5
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