NBA Playoff Game 6 Preview: Houston Rockets (2-3) vs. Golden State Warriors (3-2)

The Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors are set to face off in a crucial Game 6 of their first-round NBA playoff series on May 2, 2025, at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. Tipoff is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast live on ESPN.

Golden State leads the series 3-2, and Houston is fighting to force a decisive Game 7. The Warriors have been dominant at home, boasting a 17-3 record in their last 20 playoff games at Chase Center.

Team Form and Key Players

Houston Rockets (No. 2 Seed, 52-30 Regular Season Record)

Houston has been one of the best teams in the Western Conference all season, but they now face elimination. The Rockets bounced back in Game 5 with a 131-116 victory, fueled by Fred VanVleet’s 26-point performance and Amen Thompson’s breakout 25-point game.

Key Players:

• Jalen Green – Averaging 21.0 PPG, but has struggled with efficiency in the series.
• Alperen Sengun – Houston’s most consistent performer, averaging 19.1 PPG and 10.3 RPG.
• Fred VanVleet – Has stepped up in the last two games, averaging 25.5 PPG.

Houston needs Green and VanVleet to deliver big performances to extend the series.

Golden State Warriors (No. 7 Seed, 48-34 Regular Season Record)

Golden State has relied on its veteran core to take control of the series. Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler have been instrumental, with Butler scoring 27 points in Game 5, including clutch free throws to seal the win.

Key Players:

• Stephen Curry – Averaging 24.5 PPG, despite playing with a thumb injury.
• Jimmy Butler – Has been a defensive force and clutch scorer, averaging 17.5 PPG.
• Draymond Green – Anchoring the defense with 5.6 APG and 1.5 SPG.

Golden State’s home-court advantage and playoff experience make them tough to beat in a closeout game.

Key Matchups and Strategies

1. Curry vs. Houston’s Defense – Houston must limit Curry’s three-point shooting and force him into tough shots.
2. Sengun vs. Golden State’s Frontcourt – Sengun’s rebounding and post play will be crucial against Draymond Green.
3. VanVleet vs. Butler – Butler’s defense could disrupt VanVleet’s offensive rhythm.
4. Turnovers & Free Throws – Houston has struggled at the free-throw line (63.2% in the series), which could be costly.

Game Odds

Houston Rockets                              204

Golden State Warriors                   – 5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 1, 2025