Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors

Following a loss in their playoff opener, the Houston Rockets are eager to level the series against the Golden State Warriors as they face off again at the Toyota Center on Thursday.

In their last game, the Rockets delivered a dismal performance, scoring a mere 85 points—their lowest in a competitive match since March 2021—resulting in a 95-85 defeat. Another lackluster showing is simply not an option.

Despite dropping their final three regular-season games, the Rockets had little to worry about, having already clinched the Western Conference’s second seed behind the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Led by Coach of the Year candidate Ime Udoka, the Rockets faced a tough challenge in their playoff debut against the seasoned Warriors. Houston had reason for optimism, having defeated Golden State in their most recent encounter.

A slim 21-18 lead after the first quarter gave the Rockets hope for a Game One win, but they faltered in the second, being outscored by 16 points and struggling to regain momentum thereafter.

Alperen Sengun continued his stellar season, leading the team with 26 points on 11-18 shooting and grabbing nine rebounds, narrowly missing a double-double in his playoff debut.

As the only Rocket to score more than 11 points in the Game One loss, Sengun will need his teammates to step up significantly to prevent an early playoff exit.

After being the target of Davis's red card-worthy challenge on Sunday, Saka rightfully remained down for a few minutes. Despite Arteta's encouraging report at full time, the Spaniard should definitely think about putting Nwaneri back into the game.

The American will serve his one-game ban at the Emirates due to Richards' expulsion over the weekend, leaving Glasner without a clear center-back to take his place.

Given that Jefferson Lerma is a good alternative but may start in midfield in lieu of Adam Wharton, whom Glasner is still closely monitoring due to fitness concerns, the seasoned Nathaniel Clyne might fill in in the back three.

After a disappointing loss to the Los Angeles Clippers in their final regular-season game, the Golden State Warriors were denied automatic playoff qualification and forced to battle through the play-in tournament. They rose to the occasion, defeating the Memphis Grizzlies to secure the 7th seed in the Western Conference—setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying postseason run.

Despite the setback, Steve Kerr’s squad remains a formidable threat, especially with Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler now joining forces in their first playoff campaign together. Butler, who arrived from the Miami Heat in February, has quickly integrated into the Warriors’ system, forming a dynamic partnership with Curry. Their chemistry was on full display in Sunday’s victory, with the duo combining for 56 points—31 from Curry and 25 from Butler—including a clutch 12-point contribution in the final quarter to seal the win.

Known for their lethal three-point shooting, the Warriors outclassed their opponents from deep, draining 12 triples compared to just six in their last outing. This long-range prowess remains their most reliable weapon, and if they maintain their hot hand, they’ll be tough to stop.

Adding to their momentum, Golden State has now won seven consecutive road games, with their last three away losses all coming against Eastern Conference teams. As they head into Thursday’s matchup, the Warriors will be confident in their ability to silence another hostile crowd and take a commanding 2-0 series lead. With Curry and Butler leading the charge, this team is proving they’re still a force to be reckoned with in the playoffs.