Golden State snatched their third ring by obliterating the Houston Rockets in the NBA Finals, underscoring their dominance in playoff action. For instance, in the first half of Game 2, they crushed them in transition, 14-2. While this dominating display is an encouraging sign for the Rockets’ offense, particularly in a half-court setting, it invites skepticism. This becomes a bigger problem as the series goes on. The Los Angeles Lakers mad dash to even their semifinal series with the No. 3 seed. Meanwhile, in the other matchup, the Clippers and Nuggets are even at one game each.
The Warriors proved they are as tenacious on the defensive end as they are explosive on the scoring end. They displayed their talent and ability on each side of the court. They are all excited to build on their momentum. At the same time, teeing up their knockdown shot are multiple other playoff teams with needs and openings of their own.
Warriors Showcase Transition Offense
The Golden State Warriors might have showcased one of the fastest and most efficient transitions we’ve ever seen in their recent game against the Houston Rockets. In the first half, the Wolves scored 14 points on transition compared to just two for the Rockets. This easily highlighted their proclivity to take advantage of defensive errors. The quick counterattack became the calling card for the rest of the game. It highlighted the Warriors’ larger plan to overall play faster.
Despite a furious start from the Rockets, which included a highlight-reel dunk from Alperen Sengun over Draymond Green, the Warriors maintained composure. They did a great job of matching Houston’s first punch, showing fight and resolve. Stephen Curry’s performance would prove to be the linchpin. He finished with drives in traffic against physical defenders, illustrating an improved inside game while maintaining his signature deep-ball prowess.
The Warriors would be a glimpse at a much stronger defensive scheme. With such rapid offensive execution, they will prove to be dangerous opponents as they move deeper into the playoffs. Playing tempo will be a big factor for them. Regardless, they are going to have a lot of challenges from other teams moving forward.
Rockets Struggle to Generate Offense
Unfortunately, after their shooting fireworks in Game 1, they haven’t been able to create strong half-court offense. This problem became painfully obvious as they went up against a Warriors defense that was completely dialed in. The Warriors’ defensive effort has thoroughly disrupted the Rockets’ offensive rhythm. Consequently, the Rockets have had to turn to transition chances, a formula that’s not been a series-long recipe for success.
Apart from their problems on the offensive end, the Rockets’ rebounding has been a cause for concern as well. The Nuggets just didn’t show up, at least not to the level they did in Game 2. They allowed 22 second-chance points and 22 offensive rebounds—almost eight more than their regular-season average. This is a brutal reality check of what happens when you don’t protect the glass. For Houston, getting back in the game with better half-court execution and boxing out on the boards will be key if they want to stay in contention.
Looking ahead to their next few games, the Rockets will have to make some major recalibrations and work on their offensive vulnerabilities. Nationally, they’ll be forced to look for solutions that build on their unique strengths. Simultaneously, they need to double down on their strengths to reverse the flow of play in this series.
Lakers and Grizzlies Face Crucial Moments
The Los Angeles Lakers, meanwhile, are just trying to even their series with the No. 3 seed. With the rough early goings behind them, they’ve been searching for that auspicious breakthrough moment as they try to stamp their claim on these playoffs. Upon further review, the significance of this change can’t be stressed enough. All games are equally weighted in advancing to the playoffs.
Your Memphis Grizzlies are preparing to face a big test against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Just this week the Thunder set an impressive record for best point differential ever in a regular season. The Thunder’s defensive strategy redeemed itself for the entire league. They’ve done a masterful job of tasking their best top perimeter defenders to neutralize opposing stars, including Ja Morant.
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