Warriors Dominate Rockets with Splash Brothers’ Shooting
As “Dream Chaser” Draymond Green boasted before the game, the Rockets had no answer for the Warriors this season. Klay Thompson’s 7 three-pointers and 29 points, combined with Stephen Curry’s 29 points, 6 assists, and 6 rebounds, led the Warriors to a convincing 133-110 victory over the Rockets. This win marked their sixth consecutive victory and completed a clean sweep of the Rockets in their three matchups this season.
Explosive Start by the Splash Brothers
The Warriors surged to a 19-6 lead early in the game, fueled by the formidable three-point shooting of the “Splash Brothers,” Curry and Thompson. Despite a 14-point burst from Jalen Green for the Rockets in the second quarter, narrowing the gap to single digits, the Warriors quickly extended their lead again. By halftime, they maintained a comfortable 65-50 lead, with Thompson contributing 21 points, including 5 three-pointers, and Curry adding 12 points.
Warriors Extend Lead in the Second Half
Entering the second half, the Warriors wasted no time in widening the gap to 20 points. However, the Rockets continued to fight, trimming the deficit to 14 points with just over 6 minutes remaining in the game. Yet, Curry promptly scored 6 consecutive points, pushing the lead back to 20. Both teams then substituted key players after a timeout with 3:55 left, effectively entering garbage time.
Strong Performances from Warriors’ Supporting Cast
In addition to the stellar performances of the Splash Brothers, starting center James Wiseman contributed 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Andrew Wiggins added 10 points, while Draymond Green managed 5 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Rockets Struggle to Keep Pace
Despite a team-high 24 points from Jalen Green, the Rockets couldn’t keep up with the Warriors’ offensive firepower. Christian Wood contributed 15 points off the bench, while Jalen Green added 13 points and Kevin Porter Jr. tallied 10 points, 9 assists, and 5 steals.
Playoff Hopes Dwindle for Rockets
With the loss, the Rockets’ playoff aspirations grow increasingly distant as they fall further behind in the Western Conference standings, trailing the Warriors by 4 games.
Warriors’ Playoff Push Gains Momentum
Conversely, the Warriors’ victory solidifies their position in the standings as they continue their push for a playoff berth, currently holding the 10th spot in the Western Conference.
Reflections on Rockets’ Defensive Struggles
The Rockets’ inability to contain the Warriors’ sharpshooting duo highlights their defensive deficiencies, which have plagued them throughout the season and contributed to their struggles in the playoff race.(Superace88)