Dillon Brooks' comments following the Houston Rockets' 131-116 victory over the Golden State Warriors have reignited conversations around the ethics of targeting injured players in the NBA. With Stephen Curry nursing a thumb injury, Brooks did not shy away from the suggestion that the Rockets might have strategically aimed at Curry's vulnerable spot. Despite the defensive strategy, which proved effective for Houston, Warriors coach Steve Kerr expressed his displeasure, suggesting the league should reconsider rules that allow such targeting of injured players. Curry's impressive performance, shooting nearly 40% from three despite the injury, adds layers to this heated series.

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.

The Los Angeles Lakers concluded their season with a 103-96 defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series, resulting in a 4-1 series loss. Despite the high hopes surrounding their roster, including the acquisition of Luka Dončić, the Lakers struggled with defensive lapses and inconsistent shooting throughout the series. In Game 5, they fell behind early and, despite a brief lead in the third quarter, couldn’t maintain momentum as the Timberwolves regained control in the fourth quarter.

Rudy Gobert's impressive performance, boasting 27 points and 24 rebounds, underscored the Lakers' deficiencies in rebounding. Rui Hachimura pointed out the team’s need for a stronger presence on the boards, taking personal responsibility for the rebounding issues. With Anthony Edwards contributing 15 points but not dominating, the Lakers’ reliance on perimeter shooting was exposed by the Timberwolves, who controlled the paint and limited second-chance opportunities. As the Lakers head into the offseason, they face significant decisions on how to address these fundamental issues, particularly in rebounding and interior defense.

The Houston Rockets secured a pivotal victory against the Golden State Warriors in Game 5 of their playoff series, overcoming a 27-point lead as the game progressed. Initially, the Rockets seemed poised for a dominant finish, but their bench players faltered, allowing the Warriors to close the gap significantly. Ime Udoka, the Rockets’ coach, had to reinstate the starting five late in the game to maintain control. Dillon Brooks led the scoring with 24 points, while Fred VanVleet added 26, helping the Rockets to a 131-116 win.

The win showcased Houston's offensive prowess, particularly in the first half, where they established a considerable lead. Notably, the game highlighted Golden State’s struggles as their bench players tried to bridge the gap but failed to capitalize on multiple opportunities. Despite a late surge from the Warriors, the Rockets held their composure and ultimately secured their place in the next round of the playoffs.

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.