The Golden State Warriors (1-0) are set to clash with the Houston Rockets (0-1) in Game 2 of their highly anticipated first-round NBA Playoff series tonight. The game is scheduled to tip off at 9:30 p.m. ET at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, and will be broadcast live on TNT. As the series unfolds, the Rockets enter as 4-point favorites against the Warriors, with the over/under projected at 204.5 total points. Houston is favored at -170 to win outright, while Golden State holds a +145 line to pull off an upset. Let’s delve into the predictions and NBA picks for this exciting matchup on Wednesday, April 23.
For my best bet in the Warriors vs. Rockets Game 2, I’m placing my money on Jimmy Butler to score over 22.5 points. The best line currently available for this bet is at BetMGM. Remember, it’s always a good strategy to shop for the best line using our live NBA odds page. Here’s my pick summary:
Best Bet: Jimmy Butler Over 22.5 Points (-125) Spread: Rockets -4 Over/Under: 204.5 total points Moneyline: Warriors +145, Rockets -170There has been considerable discussion regarding whether the Warriors needed to avoid the Play-In Tournament to ensure their veteran stars, including Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green, had ample rest. Despite their efforts, the Warriors fell to the Clippers in overtime on the last day of the regular season. However, they managed to secure four days off by defeating the Grizzlies in the 7-8 game of the Play-In Tournament. Their defensive performance in Game 1 showcased the benefits of this rest, as they limited the Rockets to a season-low 85 points, shooting just 39% from the field and a mere 21% from beyond the arc.
In Game 1, Curry and Butler were instrumental in the Warriors' success, combining for an impressive 56 of the team’s 95 points, effectively snatching homecourt advantage from the Rockets. Now, as they aim for a commanding 2-0 lead before heading back to the Chase Center, they must prepare for a determined Rockets squad in Game 2.
Despite their Game 1 loss, the Rockets have reasons to feel optimistic. They managed to claw back from a daunting 23-point deficit, narrowing the gap to just three points at one stage. However, their offensive struggles against the Warriors, especially in the halfcourt, could pose challenges. During the regular season, the Rockets averaged a team shooting percentage of just 35.8%. Key players such as Amen Thompson, Tari Eason, and Steven Adams have not significantly contributed to their shooting capabilities.
Jalen Green, who led the Rockets in scoring during the regular season, had a disappointing outing in Game 1, scoring only seven points on 2-for-10 shooting. The Rockets will need Green to bounce back if they hope to level the series tonight. Coach Ime Udoka is likely to continue leaning on Alperen Sengun, who delivered a stellar performance in Game 1 with 26 points and nine rebounds. Notably, Sengun has recorded a double-double in five of his last seven matchups against the Warriors.
As the game approaches, containing Curry will be Houston’s primary objective, particularly following his impressive 31-point performance in Game 1, where he shot 12-for-19 from the field. If Curry is limited or effectively trapped, Butler may need to step up offensively. In Game 1, Butler went 10-for-19 from the field but only attempted six free throws, a stark contrast to his average of 10 free throw attempts per game over his last five outings.
On the rebounding front, I expect both Sengun and Thompson to have significant impacts. Sengun has consistently grabbed at least eight rebounds in seven straight games against the Warriors, while Thompson has logged six rebounds in five consecutive games against Golden State. For a final bet, I recommend considering an alternate under at 210 total points, given that the last five meetings between these teams have seen scores of 203 points or fewer. This adjustment may allow for slight positive regression while still providing favorable odds.
As we gear up for this thrilling matchup, the stakes are high for both teams. Will the Warriors maintain their momentum, or can the Rockets bounce back and even the series? Tune in tonight to find out!
