The Houston Rockets faced a critical Game 4 against the Golden State Warriors, ultimately succumbing to a 3-1 series deficit. Coach Ime Udoka expressed dissatisfaction with the team's starts, particularly after a shaky first quarter that saw the Warriors score 13 unanswered points. The current starting lineup has shown defensive prowess but has struggled offensively, especially Jalen Green, who has been limited to single-digit scoring in each loss. The Rockets have also experimented with a 'jumbo lineup' featuring Steven Adams, which outperformed the starting five in terms of plus-minus.

Despite the lack of scoring consistency, the Rockets' defense has kept opponents' shooting percentages low. However, weaknesses remain, particularly in offensive execution and rebounding. With Game 5 looming, Udoka hinted at possible lineup changes to address these concerns, emphasizing the need for improved performance as they look to stave off elimination.

In a tightly contested Game 4 playoff matchup, the Golden State Warriors edged out the Houston Rockets 109-106. The game featured a controversial foul call on Dillon Brooks for an infringement on Jimmy Butler during a critical 3-point attempt in the final minutes. While the NBA's Last Two Minute report confirmed the call, many analysts, including Charles Barkley and Jay Williams, criticized it, arguing that the contact was minimal compared to other plays. Despite the scrutiny, the Warriors secured the victory, leveraging their trademark savvy and strategic play.

The Golden State Warriors took a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Houston Rockets with a tense 109-106 win in Game 4, marked by physical play and emotional exchanges. Draymond Green was heavily involved in the action, accumulating five fouls, a technical, and a flagrant, yet avoided ejection. Dillon Brooks sparked tension, particularly targeting Stephen Curry, while Jimmy Butler, playing through injury, dominated with 27 points, leading the Warriors’ comeback.

Butler's intense rivalry with Brooks was highlighted in a heated verbal exchange during a free throw sequence. Referee Bill Kennedy had to intervene to ensure Butler was directing his comments at Brooks, not him. Ultimately, Butler's pivotal free throws late in the game sealed the victory for the Warriors, showcasing his fierce competitiveness against Brooks.

The Golden State Warriors solidified their position in the playoffs by defeating the Houston Rockets 107-104, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. Jimmy Butler returned to the lineup and delivered a stellar performance with 27 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists. His clutch free throws in the final minute sealed the victory against a Rockets team that included Dillon Brooks, who had a fraught history with the Warriors dating back to his time with the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite Brooks’ efforts this season, scoring an average of 14 points, the Rockets find themselves on the brink of elimination.

The Houston Rockets faced a critical playoff match against the Golden State Warriors, ultimately losing 109-106, leaving them in a challenging 3-1 series deficit. Star shooting guard Jalen Green had a lackluster performance, scoring just eight points while struggling with turnovers, leading to his late-game benching. Fans are expressing frustration over Green's inconsistency, calling for the Rockets to consider moving on from the second overall pick of the 2021 draft in favor of a more reliable option. As the Rockets prepare for a decisive Game 5, the pressure mounts for Green to prove his worth as part of this young team's core.