Just moments before tip-off between the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets for Game 3 of their first-round series, the stakes couldn't feel heavier — especially for the Warriors.
Normally, a Game 3 in a seven-game series doesn’t define legacies. But this one feels different. It might.
The Warriors' Old Guard Facing New Pressure
For Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Steven Adams, playoff basketball is anything but foreign. They've racked up championship banners, playoff heroics, and Hall of Fame credentials. No matter what happens, their names are already etched in NBA history.
But right now? They’re holding the fragile balance of this Warriors team in their hands.
The Warriors enter Game 3 back in the Bay Area, but with their season hanging by a thread — and two players in particular under intense spotlight.
Jimmy Butler: The Wild Card
If playoff basketball had a dictionary, Jimmy Butler's picture would be right next to the definition. From carrying the Heat in the 2020 Bubble to knocking off the top-seeded Bucks as an eighth seed, Butler lives for these moments.
After suffering a pelvic contusion during a freak fall in Game 2, Butler's status for Game 3 will be a game-time decision. Known for playing through pain — and playing well — Butler could be the tipping point between the Warriors surviving or crumbling.
Golden State’s offense sputtered after Butler exited Game 2. Curry’s late shooting surge wasn’t enough. They need Butler’s tenacity and leadership now more than ever.
Jalen Green: The Rockets’ X-Factor
Across the court stands Jalen Green — the Rockets’ future, but also their biggest question mark.
Houston’s 52–30 record capped off their first playoff berth since 2020, and for Green, this is his first taste of postseason fire. In Game 1, the Rockets looked overwhelmed. In Game 2? Green exploded for 38 points, becoming just the third Rocket in franchise history to post 35+ in a playoff game, joining Hakeem Olajuwon and James Harden.
That’s the good news. The bad news? Consistency has never been Green’s strength.
Let’s check the regular season numbers:
Before vs. After Warriors Matchups
- 10/31: 23 pts vs. Mavs → 11/2: 7 pts vs. Warriors
- 12/3: 28 pts vs. Kings → 12/5: 14 pts vs. Warriors
- 12/8: 31 pts vs. Clippers → 12/11: 12 pts vs. Warriors
- 2/12: 22 pts vs. Suns → 2/13: 9 pts vs. Warriors
- 3/4: 34 pts vs. Thunder → 3/6: 21 pts vs. Warriors
Against Golden State, Green’s production consistently dipped — bad news if the Rockets expect him to replicate his Game 2 heroics.
For Golden State, this isn’t just about surviving another playoff round. It’s about extending a dynasty’s heartbeat.
For Houston, it’s about proving their young core belongs on this stage — and can stay there.
If Butler plays and Green goes cold, the Warriors might still have life.
If Butler sits and Green gets hot again? This series could be over before it even gets good.