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Warriors vs. Rockets: Playoff Intensity Ignites Game 4
The Western Conference playoffs delivered another nail-biter as the Golden State Warriors edged out the Houston Rockets 109-106 in Game 4, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. This wasn't just a basketball game; it was a battle of wills fueled by intense rivalry and punctuated by technical and flagrant fouls.
A Chippy Affair
The tension was palpable from the tip-off. A hard screen by Draymond Green sparked a shoving match involving Stephen Curry and Dillon Brooks, resulting in technical fouls for all three. Later, a heated exchange between Green and Tari Eason led to a flagrant foul for Green and a technical for Eason. This physicality set the tone for a game filled with intense plays and heated exchanges.
Butler's Playoff Prowess
Returning from injury, Jimmy Butler proved why he's called "Playoff Jimmy." He delivered a clutch performance, scoring 14 of his 27 points in the fourth quarter, including a perfect 12-of-12 from the free-throw line. His game-clinching rebound in the final seconds cemented his legendary status. Butler's performance overshadowed even the contentious nature of the game.
Other Key Contributors
Brandin Podziemski provided crucial support with 26 points, hitting six three-pointers. Stephen Curry, while having a quieter game than usual with 17 points, maintained his floor-spacing impact. Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 31 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Warriors' late-game execution. The Rockets' free-throw struggles (missing 12) also played a significant role.
Series Outlook
The Warriors are on the cusp of victory, holding a 3-1 series lead. Game 5 shifts to Houston, where the Rockets face elimination. Can they overcome their struggles and the Warriors' experience to force a Game 6? Or will Golden State close out the series, solidifying their playoff run? Only time will tell.
Keywords:
Warriors vs Rockets, NBA Playoffs, Game 4, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, Stephen Curry, Alperen Sengun, Fred VanVleet, Brandin Podziemski, Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Western Conference Playoffs, Playoff Jimmy, NBA Game Recap
