The Houston Rockets are at a critical juncture as they face elimination in the playoffs against the Golden State Warriors, trailing the series 3-1. After struggling in Game 3, where they could not capitalize on Jimmy Butler's absence and shot poorly from the free-throw line, the Rockets showed signs of improvement in their paint points during Game 4. All-Star center Alperen Sengun delivered a stellar performance with 31 points and 10 rebounds. Yet, their free-throw shooting continues to haunt them, as they converted just 61.3% in a narrow 109-106 loss.

Head coach Ime Udoka emphasized the need for better execution from the charity stripe, underscoring that missed free throws could make or break their chances in a tightly contested matchup. With their disappointing 73.8% free-throw percentage throughout the season, the Rockets must rectify this weakness if they hope to stave off elimination in Game 5.