Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors: Game 6 - Live Stream

Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors: Game 6 Preview The 2025 NBA Playoffs have delivered drama, intensity, and surprises, and the first-round clash between the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors is no exception. As the series shifts back to Chase Center for Game 6, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Warriors, holding a slim 3-2 series edge, have a golden opportunity to close out the series at home, while the resilient Rockets are fighting to force a decisive Game 7 in Houston. Series Overview The series has been a rollercoaster, with momentum swinging back and forth. Golden State, led by the championship pedigree of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler, looked poised to advance after taking a commanding 3-1 lead. But Houston, defying expectations and showing remarkable growth, stormed back in Game 5 with a dominant 131-116 victory, keeping their playoff hopes alive and putting the pressure back on the Warriors. How We Got Here Games 1-4 Recap The Warriors opened the series with authority, leveraging their home-court advantage and experience. Curry’s sharpshooting and Butler’s two-way impact set the tone, while Green anchored the defense. The Rockets, however, refused to back down. Alperen Şengün emerged as a force in the paint, while Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks provided veteran leadership and scoring punch. Game 4 was a turning point, with the Warriors eking out a narrow win to take a 3-1 lead. Many thought the series was all but over, but the Rockets had other plans. Game 5: Rockets’ Statement Win Back in Houston, the Rockets played with desperation and purpose. They blitzed the Warriors early, building a double-digit lead by halftime and never looking back. Houston shot a scorching 55% from the field and 43% from beyond the arc, while also dominating the free-throw line. VanVleet poured in 26 points, Amen Thompson added 25 points and 5 steals, and Brooks chipped in 24 points. Şengün flirted with a triple-double, showcasing his versatility. Defensively, Houston was relentless, holding Curry and Butler to a combined 6-for-22 shooting. The Rockets’ energy, ball movement, and physicality overwhelmed Golden State, sending the series back to San Francisco for a pivotal Game 6. Key Storylines for Game 6 1. Warriors’ Experience vs. Rockets’ Youthful Energy Golden State’s core-Curry, Butler, and Green-has been through countless playoff battles. Their composure, leadership, and ability to execute in high-pressure moments are unmatched. However, the Rockets’ youthful exuberance, led by Şengün, Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr., has injected unpredictability into the series. Houston’s aggressive, up-tempo style has challenged the Warriors’ aging legs, especially in transition and on the boards. 2. Injury Updates and Rotations Injuries have played a role in the series. Jimmy Butler, who missed Game 3 with a pelvic injury, is off the injury report but hasn’t looked fully healthy. Curry is managing a thumb issue but remains a threat. For Houston, Jae’Sean Tate and Jock Landale are out, but their absences haven’t significantly impacted the rotation. Expect both teams to tighten their lineups, with stars logging heavy minutes and coaches making quick adjustments. 3. Rockets’ Aggression and Free-Throw Advantage A key factor in Houston’s success has been their ability to attack the rim, draw fouls, and convert at the free-throw line. The Rockets have consistently outshot the Warriors at the stripe, creating easy points and putting pressure on Golden State’s defense. If Houston can maintain this aggression, they’ll have a legitimate shot at stealing Game 6 on the road. 4. Warriors’ Home-Court Edge The Chase Center has been a fortress for the Warriors, who are 2-0 at home in this series. Golden State feeds off the energy of their crowd, and their role players-Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, and Moses Moody-tend to perform better at home. The Warriors will look to start fast, build an early lead, and rely on their experience to close out the Rockets. 5. X-Factors and Bench Contributions While stars often decide playoff games, the contributions of role players can swing a series. For Houston, VanVleet’s leadership and Brooks’ defense are crucial. Amen Thompson’s emergence as a two-way threat adds another dimension. For Golden State, Podziemski’s shooting, Kuminga’s athleticism, and the steady hand of Chris Paul off the bench will be vital. Betting Odds and Predictions Oddsmakers favor the Warriors by 5.5 points at home, with the over/under set at 206.5 points. Golden State’s experience and home-court advantage make them the logical pick, but Houston’s recent form and fearless approach suggest they are more than capable of forcing a Game 7. Expect a tight, physical contest with momentum swings and clutch performances.