In a high-stakes playoff game, the Golden State Warriors fell to the Houston Rockets, with Dillon Brooks and Stephen Curry as focal points of a heated contest. Brooks, accused of deliberately targeting Curry's injured thumb, defended his actions by arguing that injuries are part of the game. Despite Curry’s struggle with just 13 points, Draymond Green pointed out that Rockets defenders seemed intent on exploiting Curry's injury. Warriors coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the legality of such tactics within NBA rules but suggested that changes are needed to protect players' shooting hands.

As the series progresses back to San Francisco, with the Warriors leading 3-2, Curry's performance will be critical. His thumb injury, yet not admitted to affecting his game significantly, could be pivotal against an energized Rockets defense, highlighted by Amen Thompson's impactful play. The tension between teams is escalating, promising an electrifying Game 6.

The Houston Rockets showcased their speed and athleticism in a decisive Game 5 victory over the Golden State Warriors, winning 131-116. This blowout raises the question: have the Rockets found a strategy to challenge the Warriors? The Rockets' defense forced the Warriors into long possessions and capitalized on turnovers, leading to a significant lead early in the game. Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler struggled offensively, and though the Warriors' bench made a late push, it wasn't enough to overcome the deficit.

Houston's efficiency, reflected in their shooting percentages, underscored their ability to capitalize on the Warriors' mistakes. With the series now at 3-2 in favor of Golden State, the Rockets need to maintain this high tempo while finding ways to counteract the Warriors' seasoned roster as they look to even the series in Game 6.

In a crucial Game 4, the Golden State Warriors secured a narrow 109-106 victory against the Houston Rockets, with standout performances from Brandin Podziemski and Jimmy Butler. Stephen Curry, who has been the team's primary driver, had an off night, scoring only 16 points. However, Podziemski stepped up, scoring 26 points and nailing six 3-pointers. Butler, despite missing the game with a pelvic contusion, played a pivotal role in previous games, exemplifying the depth of the Warriors' roster.

Head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the impressive play of Podziemski, calling him “big-time” and praising his poise. The Warriors will maintain their starting lineup for Game 5, featuring Curry, Podziemski, Butler, Buddy Hield, and Draymond Green, but will miss Jonathan Kuminga due to injury. This victory sets the stage for an exciting Game 5 showdown back in Houston.

In a tightly contested Game 4 against the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason found himself at the center of controversy when he received a technical foul after an altercation with Draymond Green. Eason expressed surprise over the decision, questioning what he was expected to do when Green's leg was on the back of his head. He noted that the officials had been calling the game tightly, yet he remained puzzled about why he was penalized while Green received a flagrant foul. Eason dismissed the notion of an apology from Green, stating that he was not seeking one.

This incident highlights the physical nature of the postseason, especially in a series that has already seen numerous chippy moments. As the Rockets prepare for Game 5, Eason's contributions off the bench as a defensive spark and energy player will be crucial.

Draymond Green's defensive prowess was on full display during the Warriors’ Game 4 against the Rockets, showcasing why he was a finalist for this year's Defensive Player of the Year Award. With the game on the line, he forced Houston's Alperen Sengun into a difficult shot, ultimately leading to a clinching miss that put the Warriors up 3-1 in the series.

Green's strategic defense, along with Gary Payton II's timely play, demonstrated the Warriors' experience in high-pressure situations. Coach Ime Udoka noted that the defense effectively telegraphed Houston's last play, highlighting the stark contrast between the veteran-laden Warriors and a Rockets team still finding its footing in the playoffs.