Betting tips / Matthew Reid / 04 January 2012 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

When the Golden State Warriors head into San Antonio, looking to break the NBA's longest active road losing streak by one team against another, Matt Reid thinks they might do it...just.

To say the Warriors don't enjoy visiting San Antonio is an understatement.

A span of 28 games dating back to 1997 is how long it's been since the Warriors last won in San Antonio. The Spurs have been a powerhouse since Tim Duncan entered the league in 1997-98 winning four Championships, however, the hoodoo they have over the Warriors is bizarre.

Both teams are in the Western Conference and play each other four times a year (except for lockout shortened seasons), but for all the injuries, scheduling and general form the Warriors simply cannot seem to win in San Antonio.

That may change this year.

The Spurs lost their most recent game to the surging Timberwolves, but it was the loss of All-Star guard Manu Ginobili to a broken hand that will hurt them the most. Ginobili was not only playing at a high level to start the year but the Spurs simply do not have the depth to compete in the West without him. Sharpshooter Gary Neal is likely still side-lined for this match so expect the Spurs to give more playing time to rookies James Anderson and Kawhi Leonard. The Warriors talented duo of Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry will be a tough cover for the Spurs thin and inexperienced backcourt.

Warriors coach Mark Jackson is becoming frustrated with the young Warriors inconsistent play and called out his players after their most recent loss to Phoenix. You would anticipate that this outburst and the NBA worst losing streak that the Warriors have experienced in San Antonio would be enough for them to be up for this game.

Expect the Spurs to be 6-8 point favourites for this encounter and I like the Warriors to at least keep it close.

Take the Warriors with the head start.