JUST IN: Rockets Stave Off Elimination, Force Game 7 Against Warriors with Dominant Road Win
In a thrilling turn of events, the Houston Rockets have thwarted the Golden State Warriors’ elimination plans, securing a 115-107 victory in Game 6 to extend their playoff series to a deciding Game 7. The young Rockets, facing the veteran Warriors and trailing 3-2, overpowered their opponents in the final quarters, stunning a crowd that expected this to be the final game at the Chase Center.
Fred VanVleet was instrumental in the Rockets’ triumph, scoring 29 points and hitting 18 of 27 three-pointers over the last three games. The Warriors, meanwhile, faltered down the stretch, going cold from the field and ceding control of the game. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green will look to bounce back in Game 7, but they’ll need to improve their performance on the road after traveling two time zones for the Sunday showdown at the Toyota Center.
Game 7 Showdown: Rocky Rockets vs. Wobbly Warriors – What to Expect?
The NBA Playoffs just got a lot more interesting! The Houston Rockets, led by the unstoppable Fred VanVleet, forced a Game 7 against the Golden State Warriors, sending the series back to H-Town. Here’s what we’ve learned and what to expect on Sunday (8:30 ET, TNT).
1. Fred VanVleet: The Unstoppable Force
Over the last three games, VanVleet has been nothing short of sensational. He’s averaged 26.3 points, hitting 18 of 27 from deep, and has been the clear No. 1 player on the floor. The Warriors had no answer for him, and it’s all come at the right time. The question now: Can anyone on the Warriors slow him down?
Did you know? VanVleet is the first player to score at least 24 points in three straight playoff games while shooting 50% or better from three-point range since Ray Allen in 2013.
2. Warriors’ Postseason Experience: A Double-Edged Sword
The Warriors have the edge in Game 7 experience, with both Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler shining in these high-stakes games. However, their struggles in the fourth quarter of Game 6 raise concerns. Will their experience pay off, or will their age and fatigue be a factor? Game time is 3:30 PM local time in Houston, just 48 hours after Game 6. Will the quick turnaround tie their legs?
Pro Tip: Fast breaks and aggressive defense can neutralize fatigue. Expect both teams to push the pace early and often.
3. Jalen Green’s Time to Shine
Green has been a ghost throughout this series, scoring just 47 points over five games since his 38-point explosion in Game 2. But with the series on the line at home, it’s Green’s time to step up. Can he rediscover his form and willingness to attack the basket? The Rockets need him to, if they want to advance.
Reader Question: Which version of Jalen Green will we see in Game 7 – Scoring entitled or facilitator?
4. Warriors’ Crash Landing in the Fourth
In the final frame of Game 6, the Warriors went ice cold, missing 11 of 12 from deep and falling apart late. This isn’t the first time they’ve struggled in a closeout game this season. Can they learn from their mistakes and close the deal, or will they let another one slip away?
5. Houston’s Two-Headed Center Monster
Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams dominated the paint in Game 6, combining for 38 points, 19 rebounds, and 9 assists. Draymond Green and the Warriors have their hands full. Who’ll step up to handle this frontcourt juggernaut?
FAQ
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How often do lower-seeded teams win Game 7 on the road?
- Not often. In NBA history, the lower seed has won Game 7 on the road just 11 times out of 46 tries.
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Has a team ever blown a 3-1 lead and come back to win a series?
- Yes, three times. Most recently, the Toronto Raptors came back from a 3-1 deficit to beat the Warriors in the 2019 NBA Finals.
- Who’ll have the edge with the crowd behind them?
- The Rockets. Houston is known for its loud and passionate fan base, and the Toyota Center will be rocking for Game 7.
Call to Action:
Sound off in the comments! Which team will advance to the Western Conference Semifinals? Can you predict who’ll have the edge in Sunday’s winner-takes-all matchup?