The Portland Trail Blazers are about to begin their pre-season schedule, while the Golden State Warriors have already played twice. Yet the odds on a home win are approaching 1.1. That is surprising, particularly given how the Warriors thrashed the Los Angeles Lakers in their previous game (124:98). So what explains it?
Portland Trail Blazers
Unlike the Golden State Warriors, the Portland Trail Blazers came through the play-in tournament to reach the play-offs last season. However, they won only five more games than their upcoming opponents (42 to 37). The confidence in the hosts stems from this being their first pre-season game, in front of their own fans at the Moda Center. All their key players should get some minutes — forward Deni Avdija, centre Donovan Clingan and point guard Scoot Henderson. Another guard, Shaedon Sharpe, is listed as injured, although Damian Lillard has been removed from the injury list. He has not played a competitive game since returning in the summer of 2025, so his condition remains anyone's guess.
Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors, meanwhile, enjoyed themselves at home against the Los Angeles Lakers overnight into Wednesday. They were already 20 points ahead in the first quarter and maintained a substantial lead over their fierce rivals. Yaxel Lendeborg (17 points) and Brandin Podziemski (16 points) led the scoring. Stephen Curry also scored 16 in just 14 minutes on court. So why are the odds on the Warriors between 5.0 and 8.0? Because Steve Kerr has not taken Curry, Draymond Green or Al Horford to Oregon. The youngsters can certainly push the pace, but they lack comparable experience. That explains the stark difference in the odds.
Portland Trail Blazers vs Golden State Warriors Prediction
The Portland Trail Blazers naturally have a better chance of winning, considering they beat the Golden State Warriors in both home meetings last season. However, the Warriors won their 2025 pre-season meeting (111:118). With that in mind, we are taking a middle ground and backing the visitors with a +14.5-point handicap.
