The Houston Rockets are staring down a high-stakes showdown at Chase Center on Monday night. And judging by the looks, it’s got serious “make or break” energy. With the Golden State Warriors holding a 2-1 lead, Houston needs a bounce-back win badly to knot the series at 2-2.
Drop this one? And it’s 3-1. A nightmare no team wants, especially against a battle-tested squad led by Steph Curry and Draymond Green. The Rockets’ youth and depth could be a game-changer, but they’ll need every ounce of it tonight.
Rockets vs. Warriors Injury Report
The injury situation isn’t completely out of control. But it’s definitely something to keep one eye on.
For the Houston Rockets, Jae’Sean Tate remains sidelined with a right ankle impingement. No surprises there. Jack Landale, meanwhile, is listed as probable with a right knee contusion, so he could suit up if things swing the Rockets’ way during warm-ups.
Golden State Warriors fans got a sigh of relief seeing Curry officially listed as available, although he’s sporting a right thumb splint. Gary Payton II is also a go, dealing with his own thumb issue. The real wild card? Jimmy Butler III. After missing all of Game 3 and most of Game 2, Butler is questionable again, still battling a left pelvic contusion. His status might not be decided until close to tip-off. And honestly, it’s a huge swing factor. Without Butler’s two-way play, Golden State has to lean even harder on Curry’s wizardry and Draymond Green’s grit.
Both squads are coming off just one day of rest, which could lean in Houston’s favor. Youth, fresher legs, more energy. It might just make a difference when it’s crunch time in the fourth.
Predicted Lineups for Rockets vs. Warriors
Here’s how the starting units are shaping up heading into Monday night:
Houston Rockets Predicted Lineup:
- Fred VanVleet (Guard)
- Jalen Green (Guard)
- Dillon Brooks (Forward)
- Amen Thompson (Forward)
- Alperen Sengun (Center)
Golden State Warriors Predicted Lineup:
- Steph Curry (Guard)
- Brandin Podziemski (Guard)
- Jonathan Kuminga (Forward)
- Quinten Post (Forward)
- Draymond Green (Center)
If Butler can’t suit up, expect the Warriors to lean even heavier on Podziemski and Kuminga to soak up scoring slack. And don’t be surprised if Green slides between center and power forward to keep Golden State flexible on defense.
Meanwhile, Houston’s big X-factors? How much chaos Brooks can create defensively, and whether Sengun can dominate the paint like he’s been doing all year long. Plus, don’t count out Thompson; his energy could tilt momentum if the game stays close late.