Golden State Warriors vs. Philadelphia 76ers: Betting Preview & Key Storylines

Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Location: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA

The Golden State Warriors (34-26) head to Philadelphia to take on the 76ers (37-23) in a marquee cross-conference showdown. Both teams are fighting for playoff positioning, with the Warriors looking to build on their recent success and the Sixers aiming to regain momentum after an inconsistent February.

Betting Odds & Spread (as of latest sportsbook data)

• Spread: 76ers -3.5
• Over/Under: 225.5 points
• Moneyline: Warriors +145 | 76ers -170

Key Storylines to Watch

1. Can the Warriors Stay Hot?

Golden State has won four of their last five games, led by the resurgent play of Stephen Curry and the defensive presence of Draymond Green. Their three-point shooting has been electric, and they’ll need to stay hot to overcome Philly’s home-court advantage.

2. Joel Embiid’s Return Timetable

The 76ers have struggled without Joel Embiid, who remains questionable for tonight’s game as he recovers from a knee injury. If he plays, Philly’s interior presence dramatically improves. If not, the Warriors’ small-ball lineup could cause problems for Philadelphia’s frontcourt.

3. Warriors’ Road Woes vs. Philly’s Home Dominance

Golden State has been inconsistent on the road this season (14-17 away record), while the 76ers have protected home court well, boasting a 22-9 record at Wells Fargo Center. Can the Warriors break through, or will Philly’s home-court edge prevail?

4. Tyrese Maxey’s Breakout Season

With Embiid missing time, Tyrese Maxey has stepped up as a primary scoring option for the Sixers. His ability to attack the rim and hit outside shots will be critical, especially against a Warriors defense that has struggled against quick guards.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Stephen Curry vs. Tyrese Maxey – Two explosive guards who can take over a game. Curry’s deep shooting vs. Maxey’s quickness will be a key battle.
• Draymond Green vs. Tobias Harris – Green’s defensive IQ vs. Harris’ mid-range scoring ability could swing momentum either way.
• Andrew Wiggins vs. Kelly Oubre Jr. – The former teammates go head-to-head, with both players providing key secondary scoring for their squads.

Betting Trends to Consider

• Warriors are 6-4 ATS in their last 10 games.
• 76ers are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games.
• The Over has hit in 5 of Golden State’s last 7 games.
• 76ers are 4-1 in their last 5 matchups against the Warriors.

Final Prediction

Golden State’s road struggles are concerning, but if Embiid remains out, the Warriors’ small-ball lineup could give Philadelphia trouble. Curry and Klay Thompson’s perimeter shooting should keep them competitive, but if Maxey and Harris can exploit the Warriors’ defense, the Sixers can hold serve at home.

Prediction: Warriors cover the spread (+3.5), but the 76ers pull off a close win. The total goes Over 225.5 in a high-paced game.