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Rockets vs Warriors: Old Foes, New Fire
The Houston Rockets are back in the postseason spotlight—and just in time for a blockbuster showdown against a familiar foe: the Golden State Warriors.
After years of grinding through a rebuild, Houston has finally broken through. Earning the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, the Rockets shocked the league with their defensive grit and fast-paced chemistry. And guess who they drew in Round 1? Yep, the No. 7 seed Warriors, a team that haunted them through the mid-2010s.
Back then, it was Golden State that always had Houston’s number—four playoff series wins, including two crushing Western Conference Finals eliminations. But as Fred VanVleet coolly put it:
“This ain’t that team, and that ain’t that team.”
He’s right. This matchup is no rerun. The Rockets are younger, faster, and hungrier, and the Warriors, though still led by the legendary Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Kevon Looney, are navigating new waters.
Key Matchup History
Golden State took the season series 3-2, but Houston won the final game on April 6, snapping the Warriors’ 15-game win streak against them. That game wasn’t just a fluke—it was a statement. The Rockets held Curry to just 3 points on 1-for-10 shooting, thanks to some elite defensive heat from Amen Thompson.
You can dive into team stats and rosters on the NBA Team Page.
Defensive Swagger Defines This Rockets Team
Houston’s resurgence this season wasn’t fueled by offense alone. It was their defensive identity that made the difference. Head coach Ime Udoka has turned this squad into a tactical force, capable of switching gears mid-game and throwing opposing offenses off balance.
“We’ve got a lot in our toolbox now,” Udoka said. “We can go small, go big, mix in zone—whatever it takes.”
Check out expert analysis on playoff strategies here.
In their April 6 win over Golden State, the Rockets didn’t just survive—they suffocated. Houston’s physicality and versatility stifled the Warriors, setting the tone for what could be a gritty, grind-it-out series.
What About Golden State?
Don’t count them out.
The Warriors may not be the top seed, but their championship DNA remains intact. Kerr’s crew thrives in the postseason, and they’re no strangers to physical series.
“We welcome the physicality,” Kerr said. “We’ve been one of the best playoff defenses by playing tough.”
This clash has the makings of a classic NBA rivalry rekindled. Want to keep up with odds as the series unfolds? Tap into the latest on the NBA Odds Page.
Rockets vs Warriors: Game 1 and What’s at Stake
Sunday’s Game 1 isn’t just the start of the series—it’s a battle for respect, momentum, and identity. Houston wants to prove they’re not just a feel-good story. They want a ring.
Meanwhile, Golden State is out to remind the league they still have what it takes.
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Chess Match of the Playoffs
This series will be a test of coaching adjustments, rotational strategies, and yes—referee complaints. Don’t be surprised if emotions run high and controversy brews.
It’s the playoffs. It’s war.
For more insights, check out the full playoff picture via these division previews:
FAQs
Who won the last playoff series between the Rockets and Warriors?
Golden State won the 2019 Western Conference Semifinals in six games.
When is Game 1 of Rockets vs Warriors?
Game 1 tips off Sunday, kicking off their best-of-seven series.
What seed is Houston in the playoffs?
The Rockets enter as the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference.
Who are the key players to watch?
For Houston, keep an eye on Fred VanVleet and Amen Thompson. Golden State will lean on Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
Where can I find NBA betting picks?
Check out NBA Picks for the latest expert breakdowns.
Are there any major trade deadline moves?
Yes—Houston added Jimmy Butler, a huge boost heading into the postseason. Read more on that in the NBA Trade Deadline blog.
