Stephen Curry's performance has been hampered by a thumb injury sustained earlier this season, which he re-aggravated as the playoffs approached. Despite this, he averaged a commendable 26 points and six assists in the first four playoff games against the Houston Rockets. However, in Game 5, he struggled to find his rhythm, scoring just 13 points on 4-of-12 shooting.

The Rockets employed a controversial strategy, targeting Curry's injured thumb whenever he took a shot. This tactic raised eyebrows, particularly after Dillon Brooks appeared to swipe at Curry’s hand during a shot attempt. While Curry chose not to escalate the situation, acknowledging it as something he is handling, both Coach Steve Kerr and Draymond Green criticized the Rockets' tactics, suggesting they were clear but within the rules. Kerr indicated that the league might need to reevaluate these rules to protect players better.

Amen Thompson, often dubbed as a potential 'Curry stopper,' faced a challenging reality check against Stephen Curry in the first round of the playoffs. Despite Thompson’s exceptional defensive prowess, Curry showcased his scoring capability, netting 31 points in Game 1 and 36 in Game 3, even amid Houston's defensive pressure. In Game 5, however, Curry struggled with just 13 points as Thompson recorded an impressive defensive performance with five steals and three blocks, becoming one of the youngest players to achieve such a feat in playoff history.

The series has seen Curry averaging 15 points over the last two games with shooting struggles, totaling 19 turnovers through the series. Thompson's defensive intensity has clearly rattled Curry, reminiscent of a quarterback feeling pressure even before it arrives. Dillon Brooks highlighted Thompson's focus on defense, which has sparked Houston's energy and performance. As the series progresses, Thompson’s ability to pressure one of the league’s greatest scorers will continue to be pivotal.

Amen Thompson delivered a standout performance in Game 5 of the playoffs, helping the Houston Rockets secure a crucial 131-116 victory over the Golden State Warriors. Displaying all-around skills, Thompson posted 25 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 steals, and 3 blocks, joining the ranks of legends like Hakeem Olajuwon and Rick Barry with his playoff output.

Thompson's contributions were critical defensively, as he held Stephen Curry to just 13 points on 4-of-12 shooting. His aggressive play not only solidified his role as a key player for the Rockets but also garnered praise from teammates and coaches. With this win, the Rockets have extended the series to a Game 6, setting the stage for more high-stakes action in their playoff journey.

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.

Amen Thompson delivered a standout performance as the Houston Rockets forced a Game 6 in their playoff series against the Golden State Warriors. Thompson scored 25 points with 6 rebounds, 5 steals, and 3 blocks, becoming the first Rockets player in 25 years to achieve such numbers in a playoff game. His defensive prowess was on display as he effectively guarded Stephen Curry, contributing to the Warriors' struggles.

Thompson's energy and skill on both ends of the floor not only motivated his teammates but also contributed to a commanding 131-116 victory. The Rockets now look to continue their momentum into Game 6, with Thompson's twin brother, Ausar, also making waves with a strong showing for the Detroit Pistons.