In the latter of the two games that kick off the beginning of the 2025-26 NBA season, we have the Los Angeles Lakers hosting the Golden State Warriors live from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.
Last season, the Warriors finished seventh in the Western Conference, losing during the Conference Semifinals.
As for the Lakers, they had the biggest splash in recent memory, trading for Luka Dončić. They finished third in the West, but were bounced in the first round of the playoffs.
Without superstar LeBron James on the court, can the Lakers take down the Warriors?
See our predictions for opening night below.
Warriors vs Lakers Opening Night Odds
NBA odds used for these best bets are current as of Monday, Oct. 20, at 5 p.m. ET and were found at DraftKings Sportsbook.
- Moneyline: Lakers (+114) • Warriors (-135)
- Spread: Lakers +2.5 (-115) • Warriors -2.5 (-105)
- Total Points: Over 225.5 (-110) • Under 225.5 (-110)
Warriors vs Lakers Opening Night Prediction
Warriors 112, Lakers 110
As mentioned, on opening night, we won’t see James suit up for the Lakers, marking the first time in his 20-plus seasons he’s ever missed opening night.
Without him on the court, we’ll see Dončić as the focal point of the squad, alongside additions like Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Marcus Smart.
As for the Warriors, they’ll have their usual Steph Curry-led squad, who also added Al Horford this offseason.
Last season, across 60 games and 42 starts, Horford averaged nine points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. He’ll help bring a presence down low.
However, for this game, I’m leaning toward the Warriors on the road.
To end the regular season last year, the Warriors went 23-8 after acquiring Jimmy Butler.
I still question the Lakers’ depth, too. While Dončić is always going to be a force to be reckoned with, he doesn’t have James out there to assist him.
The Warriors are the better team in this one.
Warriors vs Lakers Opening Night Best Bets
Warriors ML (-135)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 Unit
I’m not exactly thrilled with the point spread here on opening night. Even though the Lakers are without James, they are at home, and Dončić’s new physique and health have been all the rage.
Despite that, I think the Warriors, who are healthier, made a solid acquisition in Horford, and played well with Butler down the stretch last season, can edge out a win.
Consider the Warriors’ moneyline for your NBA bet of the day.
Under 225.5 Points (-110)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 Unit
Even though it’s opening night and everyone is rested and ready to go, the Warriors and Lakers ranked inside the bottom-10 last season in points per game allowed. Not only that, but the Lakers held opponents to a shooting percentage of 35.4% (ninth-lowest) from beyond the arc and added Smart, who’s known for his defense.
On top of that, James is out, which could result in less scoring.
While these teams are both rested, that could also work in favor of stronger defenses, too.
I’ll lean under.
