Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors are in a territory they haven’t experienced in the longest time: they are now at the brink of elimination against the Houston Rockets.
The 3-2 series ditch the Dubs find themselves in was something not a lot of online bookies were anticipating to really happen, but great plays from James Harden, Chris Paul and the entire Houston team roster made this situation a reality.
However, it’s been confirmed that James Harden will be facing the Dubs on their home floor without his trusted floor general. Basketball betting experts are probably tipping the game in favour of the Warriors as it seems like the Warriors are too much for Harden to handle alone.
Will the Beard be able to pull off the impossible and defeat the Warriors on his own? Or will the Dubs follow the Cleveland Cavaliers and force a Game 7?
Talking Points
One of the most interesting topics of conversation to see here is the fact that neither of the usually high-scoring outfits scored more than 100 points on the last two games. Game 4 was won by Houston in a game that could have been extended by a three-point make by Stephen Curry. Game 5, on the other hand, was iced by Eric Gordon’s free throws before the buzzer ended the 94-98 contest.
The fact that the Dubs and the Rockets, teams that have scored more than 105 points per outing in these playoffs, scored low in the last two games is a testament to the physical defence employed by both teams. It’s unbelievable to admit, but Houston’s defensive planning has put them close to a Finals appearance.
Fans that have been following the NBA for the longest time know just how allergic Mike D’Antoni is to defence. His usual approach to the game was to let their attacks make up for the shortcomings of their guards. However, he made the wise decision to turn to a switch-heavy defence to counter the Warriors’ very fluid lineups.
However, there are concerns on the Houston end as Chris Paul will be sitting out of Game 6 due to hamstring problems. The most bitter part of this is the fact that the injury occurred during the game’s final moments. It remains to be seen if CP3 will be available to the Rockets should the series head back to Houston for a decisive Game 7. Fans will be hoping that Harden will be able to end the series at the Oracle.
Meanwhile, the Warriors saw their two main stars misfiring left and right. Curry and Durant had respectable scoring performances (29 for KD and 22 for Steph) in Game 5, but their scoring efficiency leaves a lot to be desired. This is especially true for Curry’s case after making only two of his eight three-point attempts.
Andre Iguodala’s absence is also doing a number on the Warriors. They’re still not sure as to whether the versatile winger will be able to return on time for Game 6, and that’s definitely bad news for them. Iggy’s contributions to Golden State’s ‘Hamptons Five’ lineup is sorely missed, and fans will be hoping for his quick return to action.
History
The past two games have been determined by defence, and Houston’s defensive planning will also determine whether they make the NBA Finals for the first time since 1995.
Harden, Gordon, Clint Capela, Trevor Ariza and PJ Tucker need to exert their utmost on defence to force the Warriors to take hard shot attempts. They also need to clog the passing lanes and force the Dubs to make as many turnovers as they did in Game 5.
The Beard also needs to take it upon himself to carry the Warriors and end the series on their home floor. He is among the top playoff performers in points, assists, steals, and player efficiency. However, his performance in Game 5, headlined by his atrocious 0-for-11 from deep, is not going to win them the conference. He needs to step up, and the time to do so is now.
Curry and Durant only need to maximise their efficiency on shooting if they want to force a Game 7. Draymond Green also needs to be more careful with the ball as his turnovers late in Game 5 added to the ditch they are currently in. Klay Thompson should continue bothering Harden with his defence.
What are the odds?
Betting sites see this game heading to Game 7 and favour the Warriors to win big time. Golden State -12.00 @ 1.98 is the way to go if you believe Dub Nation will be able to force a do-or-die match in Houston. Rockets +11.50 @ 2.02 is the way to go if you think James Harden will be able to at least keep the score close.
Over-Under odds also offer interesting options: Over 213 give 1.94 while Under 213.00 rewards punters with 1.94 odds.
●●●
CHECK OUT OUR BLOG FOR MORE BASKETBALL STORIES & ODDS
Stay updated with everything sports and betting.
Follow us on social Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
