Warriors vs Rockets Prediction, Odds & Game Preview 4/26/2025

The Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors face off in a pivotal Game 3 with their first-round playoff series tied 1-1, as Jimmy Butler's questionable status looms large over the Warriors' game plan.

Jalen Green's explosive 38-point performance in Game 2 showcased the Rockets' young firepower, while Stephen Curry looks to shoulder an even heavier offensive load for Golden State at Chase Center.

With the Warriors' depth already stretched thin and Houston gaining confidence after evening the series, Saturday's matchup presents a crucial turning point that could ultimately define which team advances.

At Sporting Post, our unique prediction model brings together insights from top NBA experts.

Instead of searching through countless expert analyses online, you can rely on our predictions to capture the market's overall sentiment. We scan trusted sources, analyzing expert picks, data, and trends, while our AI assigns a confidence level to each prediction. These confidence levels are then averaged to generate an 'expert opinion' win probability—providing a data-driven reflection of the collective intelligence of the industry's leading NBA analysts.

Best NBA sportsbook promos

Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets preview

The Warriors and Rockets bring their deadlocked playoff series to Chase Center with Golden State holding home court advantage after splitting the first two games in Houston.

Stephen Curry faces mounting pressure to carry the scoring load for Golden State, especially with Jimmy Butler's status uncertain following his tailbone injury in Game 2.

Houston's young squad showed remarkable poise in Game 2, with Jalen Green erupting for 38 points including eight three-pointers—silencing critics after his jittery playoff debut.

The battle between defensive efficiency and playoff experience looms large, as the Warriors (ranked 4th defensively) must find ways to contain the Sengun-Green tandem that dominated last time out.

Expect the Warriors to lean heavily on their championship DNA at home, though Houston's defensive intensity has already disrupted Golden State's rhythm throughout the series.

Both teams have struggled to crack 100 points consistently in this grinding defensive series, with the Warriors particularly vulnerable if Butler can't suit up against Houston's physical perimeter defenders.

Key stats

1

Houston Rockets (2nd in Western Conference) have won 52 games this season, showing excellent form with recent LLLWW record

2

Golden State Warriors sit 7th in Western Conference with a 48-34 record and inconsistent recent form (LWLWL)

3

Houston's offense has been slightly more productive than Golden State's (9372 vs 9331 points scored)

4

Rockets have a significantly better defensive record, allowing 8962 points versus Warriors' 9060 points against

Betting on the NBA?