The first-round playoff series between the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets proved to be one of the most competitive matchups of the postseason. Taking place earlier this year in the Western Conference, the matchup saw the seventh-seeded Warriors face off against the Rockets, who were seeded second. Many experts had expected the Rockets to win, making the Warriors’ victory an upset despite the narrow difference of four wins during the regular season.
The seven-game series was highly contested, with both teams showcasing intense effort and toughness. The Warriors ultimately advanced, but only after a grueling series that tested both squads physically and mentally.
Evaluating Player Performances in the Series
Rockets center Alperen Sengun commented on the vocal nature of the Warriors during games, especially their reactions to officiating calls. Sengun also expressed his excitement about guarding Draymond Green, who was assigned to defend him throughout the series.
Draymond Green, speaking on The Draymond Green Show, offered insights into the Rockets’ challenges. He pointed out that Jalen Green, the Rockets’ leading scorer during the season averaging 21 points per game, had a difficult time maintaining that scoring output in the playoffs. Jalen managed to break the 20-point mark only once in the series, delivering an impressive 38-point effort in Game 2, which was crucial as Houston won that game.
Despite his struggles, Jalen scored in double digits three times across the seven games, all of which were victories for the Rockets.
Highlighting other contributors, Green praised Jabari Smith’s development during the series. He noted that Smith, who narrowly avoided becoming a draft bust as the number two overall pick, showed resilience and competitiveness. Green predicted Smith would likely secure a place in Houston’s starting lineup moving forward.
Looking Ahead: Key Players and Team Prospects
Green also shared thoughts on the considerable impact of Kevin Durant joining the Rockets through a trade. He emphasized that acquiring Durant represents a significant uplift for any team. Additionally, Green expects the Rockets’ young players, such as Sengun and Tari Eason, to make notable progress following their playoff experience.
Regarding Rockets guard Fred VanVleet‘s recent two-year contract extension, Green offered direct praise:
Well deserved, the way I saw him lead that team in the playoffs.
—Draymond Green, Warriors forward
Warriors’ Offseason Movements and Team Dynamics
On the Golden State Warriors side, there has been a pause in rumors revolving around players like Jonathan Kuminga, as ongoing negotiations have stalled, impacting potential moves involving veterans such as Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton. The Warriors have not been very vocal publicly as they consider their future lineup.
This offseason pause reflects a moment of reflection and strategy for Golden State as they aim to build upon their playoff success and respond to the evolving competition within the Western Conference.
The Significance of This Series for Both Franchises
The Warriors’ win over the Rockets in such a close series demonstrated the fine margins that define postseason success in the NBA’s Western Conference, where competition is fierce and any team can prevail on any given night. The performances of Houston’s young stars, including Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith, highlight the promising future of the franchise despite their elimination.
For Golden State, overcoming a tough Rockets squad reinforces their resilience and championship experience, while the Rockets look toward the 2025-26 season with optimism, especially with Kevin Durant’s addition and expected growth from their young core.