2025 NBA West 1st Round Game 6 Preview - Houston vs. Golden State: Can the Rockets shoot down the Warriors to force a Game 7? May 2, 2025 by Marc Jerbs

The first-round NBA Western Conference playoff series between the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets is heading into a crucial Game 6, scheduled for Friday, May 2, at 9:00 PM EDT. Taking place at the Chase Center in San Francisco, this pivotal clash gives the Warriors the benefit of home court as they look to close out the series. Holding a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven matchup, Golden State is just one win away from advancing, while Houston fights to extend their playoff hopes.

Series Context and Game 5 Recap

This series has been marked by intensity and drama, epitomized by Houston's emphatic Game 5 victory at the Toyota Center. Facing elimination, the Rockets delivered a commanding 131-116 win to stay alive. They erupted early, showcasing near-flawless execution in the first half—shooting 69.4% from the field, 60% from three-point range, and 85% at the free-throw line—en route to a dominant 76-49 halftime lead. That total marked Houston's highest-scoring half in any playoff game during the modern play-by-play era.

The Rockets' success stemmed from balanced contributions across the lineup. Fred VanVleet led with 26 points, hitting key threes and making clutch plays. Amen Thompson emerged as a dynamic two-way presence, tallying 25 points, 6 rebounds, 5 steals, and 3 blocks. Dillon Brooks added 24 points, while Alperen Şengün flirted with a triple-double, highlighting Houston's depth and versatility. Regular-season scoring leader Jalen Green continued his quiet postseason stretch, finishing with just 11 points in Game 5.

For the Warriors, Game 5 was a struggle. Injuries and disjointed offense led to an early deficit that proved insurmountable. Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler were contained and eventually benched in the third quarter as Houston pulled away. A late push by Golden State's reserves cut into the lead with a 21-7 run in the fourth, but it was not enough. Curry, limited by a thumb injury and increased defensive pressure, scored just 13 points on 4-of-12 shooting. Head coach Steve Kerr has hinted at possible lineup adjustments for Game 6, citing the need for flexibility moving forward.

Houston vs. Golden State Sports Bet Odds

The Warriors are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Warriors favored by 4.5 points, with a money line of -215.
• The Nuggets are the underdogs by 4.5 points, with a money line of +183.
• The over/under is set at 203.5 points, with the over at -110 and the under at -110.

Game 6 Outlook and Series Implications

Returning to the Chase Center, the Warriors find themselves with a golden opportunity to end the series in front of their home crowd and avoid a pressure-packed Game 7 in Houston. Golden State has a strong playoff track record at home, bolstered by the experience of veterans like Curry and Butler, providing both a psychological and strategic edge.

However, the Rockets arrive with momentum, energized by their Game 5 blowout and the fearless play of their young core. Their aggressive defense and effective zone coverage have disrupted the Warriors' rhythm and forced tough shots—a strategy they will likely stick with in Game 6. Houston's chances hinge on maintaining their offensive efficiency while continuing to apply intense defensive pressure.

Final Thoughts

As Game 6 tips off at the Chase Center, both teams are poised for a high-stakes battle that could define their postseason trajectory. The Warriors will look to draw on their championship pedigree and home-court dominance to finish the job, while the Rockets aim to ride their momentum and youthful confidence to force a decisive Game 7. Expect a fierce, high-energy contest where execution, composure, and grit will make all the difference in one of the NBA's most compelling playoff matchups.

2025 Comparative Houston vs. Golden State Postseason Stats

Houston Rockets	VS	Golden State Warriors
104.8	Points Per Game	103.6
46.0	Rebounds Per Game	39.4
20.0	Assists Per Game	24.0
7.6	Steals Per Game	9.4
13.0	Turnovers Per Game	11.6