Podcast: Rockets-Warriors playoff series predictions, keys to success
Podcast: Rockets-Warriors playoff series predictions, keys to success Discussion topics on the series preview podcast include predictions and key storylines to watch for, as well as potentially crucial variables for Houston.
Is the fifth time the charm? With a first-round series (schedule) against their longtime nemesis coming up, Rockets podcasters Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves explain why 2025 should finally be the time for Houston to beat Golden State in the NBA playoffs.
The Rockets previously lost to the Warriors in 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019 playoffs. However, all of those losses came during the previous James Harden-led era — when none of Houston's current players or coaches were part of the organization.
As the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, these Rockets (52-30) will have home-court advantage over the No. 7 Warriors (48-34). Game 1 and Game 2 will take place on Sunday and Wednesday inside Houston's Toyota Center, as would Game 5 and Game 7 (if necessary). Game 3, Game 4, and Game 6 (if necessary) are slated for San Francisco's Chase Center.
Looking ahead, discussion topics on the series preview podcast include key storylines to watch for; predictions on what is likely to happen; and the role of players such as Alperen Sengun, Tari Eason, Steven Adams, and Fred VanVleet as potentially crucial variables for the Rockets.
Thursday's podcast, which is sponsored by Houston-based Karbach Brewing, can be listened to below in its entirety. Each episode of the show is also made available via flagship radio station SportsTalk 790 and to all major podcast distributors under 'The Lager Line.'
More: With opponent set, Rockets begin preparations for first-round playoff series with Warriors
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