HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The Houston Rockets are set to host the Golden State Warriors in a highly anticipated opening game of the Western Conference first round on Sunday, April 20, 2025. This matchup marks a significant moment for the Rockets, as it will be the first taste of playoff action for their promising young core, which includes standout players like Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Cam Whitmore. Adding to this youthful energy are seasoned veterans Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks, Steven Adams, and Jeff Green, who are expected to provide much-needed guidance as the team embarks on this postseason journey.
The Warriors, on the other hand, come into this series with a wealth of playoff experience, led by their superstar trio of Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. The Rockets have had a solid season, holding a 31-21 record in conference matchups and finishing with a 22-23 record against teams with a winning record. The Warriors, currently sitting ninth in the Western Conference, have a 29-23 record in conference play and average 113.8 points per game with a shooting percentage of 45.1%.
As the first game approaches, the focus is on the three-point shooting prowess of both teams. The Rockets have made an average of 12.7 three-pointers per game this season, which is just shy of the 13.2 that the Warriors allow. Conversely, Golden State leads the league with an average of 15.4 made three-pointers per game, outpacing the Rockets' defensive average of 12.3 allowed. Jalen Green has been a key player for Houston, averaging 21 points and 3.4 assists this season, while Alperen Sengun has been averaging 16.0 points over his last ten games. For the Warriors, Curry has been impressive, averaging 24.5 points and six assists.
Injury updates have also come into play, with Rockets forward Jae'Sean Tate ruled out for Game 1 due to an ankle injury. This absence may put additional pressure on Houston's young stars to step up in their playoff debut.
Jalen Green's performance will be particularly scrutinized as he takes the court for his first playoff game. The young shooting guard has had a stellar season, averaging 21 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. Head coach Ime Udoka has challenged Green to elevate his game to new heights in the playoffs. "I think it helps a lot defensively especially rebounding so we can get out and run. Just making the right reads and scoring going to come as it's more about finding ways to get guys involved," Green said, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and focus.
Analysts are leaning towards the Warriors to win the series due to their experience and the supporting cast surrounding Curry and Green. However, Green remains undeterred by the external expectations. "The main thing is to just stay focused, not feed into antics and stuff, just prove it on the court. Defensively, offensively rebounding, communicating, and overall togetherness," he stated, highlighting the Rockets' commitment to unity and determination.
As the game draws near, the Rockets are considered slight favorites, with Houston favored by one point according to DraftKings Sportsbook, and the total points set at 212. However, Jalen Green's history against the Warriors raises concerns. In five matchups this season, he has struggled, averaging only 12.6 points per game and shooting just 32% from the field against them. This playoff debut could add pressure, as Green looks to shake off any jitters and deliver a standout performance.
Stephen Curry's experience could prove pivotal in this series, as he faces off against two of his former camp stars, Jalen Green and Amen Thompson. Reflecting on this unique matchup, Curry remarked, "It is wild going into a playoff battle against two guys I coached for a weekend." This blend of mentorship and rivalry adds another layer of intrigue to the series.
Throughout the season, Curry has been a cornerstone for the Warriors, averaging 24.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and six assists per game, despite dealing with a lingering thumb injury. His shooting statistics are impressive, with a 45% shooting rate from the field and nearly 40% accuracy from beyond the arc. With one playoff victory already secured following a hard-fought win in the opening game of the Western Conference Play-In Tournament, the Warriors are poised to capitalize on their momentum.
As both teams prepare for a clash at the Toyota Center, the stakes couldn't be higher. Houston's head coach Ime Udoka has been putting the Rockets through what he describes as a "second training camp" to ensure they are fully prepared for the playoff intensity. "Attention to detail and great execution," Udoka emphasized, recognizing the unique challenges posed by Golden State's style of play. The Rockets will need to exhibit cohesion, communication, and control to navigate the complexities of this series.
With the Rockets finishing the season strong, winning 15 out of their last 20 games, they enter the playoffs as the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. However, public perception still favors the Warriors, who are the current betting favorites to advance. The Rockets' offensive approach, which has been somewhat erratic this season, will be tested against Golden State's top-rated defense since the All-Star break.
As the clock ticks down to tip-off, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a thrilling playoff series. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the young Rockets will fare against the seasoned Warriors, and whether Jalen Green can rise to the occasion in his playoff debut. This series will not only define the playoff legacy of Green and his teammates but also set the stage for future encounters between these two dynamic teams.
