In Game 4 of the playoffs, the Warriors and the Rockets engaged in an intense showdown. Both teams showcased comparable strength, excelling in their command of physical play, which made the game highly charged with tension. In the end, the Warriors narrowly secured a 109–106 victory, giving them a 3-1 lead in the series and advancing them to the next stage.
In this game, Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch expressed surprise at the referees’ calls, particularly when technical fouls and flagrant fouls were issued during a skirmish between players from both teams. The ever-unruly Draymond Green and Dillon Brooks were at the center of the conflict, adding a hefty dose of drama to the matchup.
Moreover, Jimmy Butler, who had been sidelined due to a hip injury, has made his return. With his wealth of playoff experience, he’s eager to keep the pressure on the Rockets. Butler’s comeback not only significantly boosts the Warriors’ morale but also amplifies the intensity and competitiveness of the game.
Early in the game, the first clash erupted suddenly in the second quarter when the unexpected teamwork of Green and Curry caught their opponents off guard, drawing intense defense from Brooks. This led to multiple players getting involved in the skirmish, ultimately resulting in the referee issuing technical fouls to three players. Shortly after, the second clash swiftly followed—during a scramble, Eason accidentally kicked Green, triggering a fiery reaction from Green that reignited tensions on the court. Eason was subsequently given a technical foul, while Green faced the risk of being ejected for a flagrant foul but narrowly avoided expulsion in the end.
As the game progressed, the intensity on the court kept escalating, and the referee showed no signs of easing up on their calls. The Warriors demonstrated fierce defensive intent in the fourth quarter, highlighted by Kevon Looney’s challenge against Adams and the mid-range offensive comebacks from both Butler and Curry, which granted the Warriors the upper hand. In the critical moments, Butler’s flawless execution of three free throws solidified the Warriors’ lead, while the Rockets’ Sengun displayed relentless fighting spirit, keeping the game thrilling right up to the final whistle.
Despite the Rockets giving it their all, they ultimately suffered a heartbreaking three-point loss. The Warriors showcased stronger team dynamics, and this hard-fought victory earned them a crucial opportunity in the series. The upcoming games will be key to their march toward victory.
