Rockets v Warriors Game 7 Preview and Analysis

The Western Conference is always a bloodbath, and the first round rarely disappoints. This year’s series between the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors has delivered all the intensity basketball fans could ask for. For a detailed Rockets vs Warriors Game 7 preview, we look back at how, after falling into a 3-1 hole, the young Rockets have battled back to even the series. Now Game 7 heads back to Houston and the Rockets look well poised to complete the comeback.

Powered by the relentless defense of Amen Thompson and a fearless, energetic core, the Rockets have turned what was supposed to be a rebuilding season into something special. In Game 6, it was their total team effort – particularly on defense – that held off a late Warriors surge and forced a decisive finale.

Thompson has been especially electric. While his jump shot is still developing, his defensive instincts, ball-handling, and ability to push the pace have been crucial for Houston. He’s set the tone for this defense and brought a tenacity that’s impossible to ignore.

Alperen Sengun continues to show why he was an All-Star this year. His footwork, vision, and post presence have created constant problems for Golden State’s smaller lineup. Pairing him with Steven Adams, the league’s leading offensive rebounder, has only added to the mismatch. The Warriors tried to exploit Adams by sending him to the free-throw line, but their “Hack-a-Adams” strategy backfired when he hit 9-of-16 in Game 6.

With Adams improving at the line, Steve Kerr may be forced to rethink his approach in Game 7.

But the X-factor in this series might just be Fred VanVleet. The veteran guard – no stranger to taking down the Warriors, having done so during his championship run with Toronto – has completely flipped the series. After a cold start, VanVleet has exploded for 29, 26, and 25 points in Games 4 through 6. His shot-making has changed the energy of this young team and reminded everyone why Houston paid to bring him in.

Role players have also stepped up. Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr. have brought length, effort, and defensive energy off the bench. When they’re knocking down open threes, Houston’s spacing becomes a nightmare to guard.

Golden State’s championship pedigree remains a threat, and Stephen Curry has done his part. But Houston has made adjustments – throwing multiple defenders at Curry, forcing the ball out of his hands, and disrupting his rhythm. Jimmy Butler, brought in for his playoff toughness, has shown flashes but struggled with injuries. If he’s close to full strength, expect him to empty the tank in Game 7.

The real problem for Golden State? They haven’t found a consistent third option. Brandin Podziemski went off in Game 4 but has cooled since. The bench unit of Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, and Gary Payton II hasn’t contributed enough.

The key swing factor in Game 7 could be either Podziemski or Jalen Green. If one of them gets hot early, it could tilt the momentum. Green has 30-point potential any night, and Podziemski has proven he can rise to the occasion when the lights are brightest.

Prediction: Rockets Win Game 7 at Home

Going against Steph Curry in a Game 7 is never easy, and maybe a little foolish, but there’s something special about this Rockets team right now. They’re young, athletic, confident, and rolling with momentum. VanVleet and Sengun have willed this team back from the brink. And now, in front of what will be a raucous Houston crowd, they have the chance to finish the job.

It won’t be easy, and the Warriors won’t go quietly, but Houston’s defense, hustle, and timely shot-making will be just enough.

The Rockets complete the comeback, win Game 7, and punch their ticket to a high-stakes second-round showdown with the Timberwolves, who dismantled the Lakers in five.

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