Thunder’s preferred matchup: Clippers or Nuggets?
For The Hoops crew discuss whether the Thunder would prefer to face the Clippers or Nuggets in the second round of the NBA playoffs
The first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs continues Friday with Game 6 between the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets. The Warriors currently lead the series 3-2.
The Rockets avoided elimination with a 131-116 win in Game 5, extending the series. Fred VanVleet led the team with 26 points, while Amen Thompson contributed 25 points, five steals, and three blocks, which were crucial in securing the win. The Rockets’ defensive pressure in Game 5 was a key factor, as they capitalized on the Warriors’ turnovers to score 18 points.
Now, as the series returns to the Chase Center in San Francisco, the excitement for Game 6 is intense. Here are predictions, odds and how to watch the game:
Warriors vs. Rockets: NBA playoffs picks and predictionsESPN: Warriors have a 59.8% chance to win
According to ESPN’s Matchup Predictor, the Golden State Warriors have a 59.8% chance of beating the Houston Rockets in Game 6.
BetMGM: Warriors
Shame Jackson writes: “It’s difficult to disagree with their logic. The Warriors have a team with plenty of playoff experience. These veteran players know how much they have left in the tank better than anyone. Stephen Curry has a 22-13 record in closeout games. I’ll side with Curry and Co. in Game 6.”
Sportsbook Review: Warriors 109, Rockets 101
Gabe Henderson writes: “While the Rockets were one of the West’s better road teams during the regular season (29-12), the Chase Center is a different beast in the NBA playoffs. Not to mention, Golden State has two proven playoff superstars in its ranks with Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry. We’re not betting against either of them at home in a closeout game. This is why we’re comfortable backing the Dubs to cover the spread.”
Warriors vs. Rockets: NBA playoffs odds
The Warriors are favored to defeat the Rockets in Game 6, per BetMGM odds:
Odds as of Thursday, May 1:
Game 4 Spread:Â Warriors (-4.5)Game 4 Moneyline:Â Warriors (-200); Rockets (+170)Game 4 Over/Under:Â 203.5Warriors vs. Rockets: NBA playoffs schedule, how to watch, time, TV channel, streaming
The first-round series between the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets began on Sunday, April 20, and could run through Sunday, May 4.
Cord-cutting fans can stream the action on Sling for games on TNT and Fubo for those on ABC. Fubo is offering a free trial for new subscribers.
All times Eastern.
Watch the entire Warriors vs. Rockets series on Fubo