Don’t count out the Rockets.
Everyone expected this matchup to take place in the playoffs–Warriors against the Rockets in a seven-game series–for a ticket to the NBA Finals!
Houston took the season series, two games to one. But what will happen now? Let’s take a look.
Houston Rockets
Clint N’Dumba-Capela, Rockets’ X-Factor? (The Basketball Network)
Shooters getting their rhythm: The Rockets will always get their shots no matter what. Thanks to Paul and Harden this team runs a high-octane offense, including averaging 42 attempts a game from the three-point line–and from eight different players, no less.
Capela dominating in the paint: Capela has improved a lot in the playoffs, proving his worth against star centers–Karl-Anthony Towns of the Wolves and Rudy Gobert of the Jazz. He improved his season averages in all the major categories–points, rebounds, assists, and blocks. And the Warriors don’t really have a center that can match-up with Capela (no disrespect to McGee and Pachulia). Capela could be a game-changer.
Golden State Warriors
Consistent team defense: Just like in their series against the Pelicans, Golden State will need to play consistent team defense. The Paul-Harden duo is in the groove, averaging 50.3 ppg together. The Warriors need to handle those two.
Draymond Green with his “Dennis Rodman Effect” (photo, SI)
All-stars stepping up: The Rockets are underrated on defense with reliable wing defenders in Ariza, Mbah a Moute, Tucker, and Gordon. Warriors’ stars, on the other hand, have struggled when matched up with solid wing defender. They’ll need to step up in this series.
Game 1 in Houston: Monday, May 14, 9 p.m. ET
Game 2 in Houston: Wednesday, May 16, 9 p.m. ET
Game 3 in Oakland: Sunday, May 20, 8 p.m. ET
Game 4 in Oakland: Tuesday, May 22, 9 p.m. ET
Game 5* in Houston: Thursday, May 24, 9 p.m. ET
Game 6* in Oakland: Saturday, May 26, 9 p.m. ET
Game 7* in Houston: Monday, May 28, 9 p.m. ET
* — if necessary
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Updated Data as of May 11, 2018. Sources–Basketball-Reference.com, CBS Sports
