During the intense showdown in the NBA playoffs, Game 2 between the Rockets and the Warriors garnered widespread attention. The Rockets showcased exceptional offensive and defensive prowess, ultimately leveling the series with a commanding victory. The Rockets' starting lineup featured Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Amen Thompson, and Alperen Sengun, while the Warriors were led by Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
From the very start of the game, the Rockets' offensive strategy became clear—they focused heavily on attacking the paint. The synergy between Jalen Green and Sengun was especially on point, leading to multiple easy scoring opportunities. This approach helped the Rockets secure a double-digit lead by the end of the first quarter. However, the Warriors suffered a major setback when Jimmy Butler got injured while contesting a rebound, ruling him out for the rest of the game. This dealt a severe blow to the Warriors' offense and defense. Substitute Jonathan Kuminga struggled to stabilize the situation, allowing the Rockets to widen the gap even further.
Throughout the first half, the Rockets showcased a shooting percentage of 44% and a three-point accuracy of 36%. Their defense was equally impressive, managing to dominate the tempo of the game. In contrast, the Warriors struggled offensively following the loss of Butler, with frequent turnovers and a lackluster performance that saw them trail by as many as 20 points midway through the second quarter.
In the third quarter, the Rockets continued to maintain their advantage. Despite the Warriors' attempts to narrow the gap through Post's three-pointer and Podziemski's return, they were unable to break through the Rockets' defense. Jalen Green delivered an especially stunning performance in this game, scoring 38 points and fully showcasing his scoring prowess.
Heading into the final quarter, the tension on the court was palpable, but the flow of the game remained unchanged. The Warriors couldn’t turn the tide, while the Rockets firmly held onto their lead, ultimately securing another victory. This game wasn’t just a standout win for the Rockets; it also profoundly impacted the Warriors’ future, with Butler’s injury set to become a pivotal factor in the outcome of the series.
