Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors Live Stream in the NBA Play-In Tournament
Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors: Live Stream, Preview & Odds – NBA Playoffs 2025 Game 1
The stage is set at the Toyota Center in Houston as the Houston Rockets get ready to host the Golden State Warriors in Game 1 of their first-round showdown in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The game tips off on Sunday, April 20, at 9:30 PM ET in what promises to be an intense battle between two high-powered teams.
The Rockets return to the postseason for the first time since 2020 and have earned the No. 2 seed in the West after an impressive regular season. On the other hand, the Warriors claimed the 7th seed following a hard-fought 121-116 win over the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Play-In Tournament.
These teams last met on April 6, with Houston securing a 106-96 victory over Golden State. With that recent win fresh in their minds, the Rockets enter Game 1 as slight favorites according to DraftKings Sportsbook, where they are currently listed at -1, with a total over/under of 213 points.
🔍 Why Houston Could Take Game 1
Jalen Green has emerged as a dynamic scoring threat for Houston. The athletic guard is averaging 21 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists this season and recently dropped 21 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals in that win over the Warriors earlier this month.
The Rockets also rely heavily on Alperen Sengun, who had a breakout season with averages of 19.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. His presence in the paint is a difference-maker—he recorded 45 double-doubles this year and added 19 points and 14 rebounds in their last meeting with Golden State.
🔍 Why the Warriors Are Still Dangerous
Never count out Stephen Curry. The two-time MVP remains one of the most dangerous shooters in the league, averaging 24.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.0 assists, while hitting nearly 40% of his threes. He was electric in the play-in win against Memphis, putting up 37 points and hitting six triples.
Jimmy Butler, acquired at the trade deadline, has also given the Warriors a much-needed two-way spark. The veteran forward is averaging 17.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. He’s been on a tear recently, scoring 28+ points in four straight games, including 38 points in his last outing.
📺 How to Watch
- Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Toyota Center, Houston, TX
- TV Broadcast: FuboTV (Free Trial Available)
- Streaming Services: YouTube TV, Fubo
How to Watch the NBA Without Cable
If you're looking to watch the game without a cable subscription, there are several streaming options available:
To watch the match via the official application of the competition:
🔮 Betting Info
- Spread: Houston -1
- Total Points (O/U): 213
- Moneyline: Houston -119, Golden State -101
- Against the Spread:
- Warriors: 41-39-3
- Rockets: 43-38-1
✅ Final Thoughts
This opening game is shaping up to be a thrilling encounter between two contrasting teams—Houston, the young and hungry squad looking to make noise in their playoff return, and Golden State, the experienced championship contenders led by one of the greatest shooters of all time.
Whether you're tuning in for the fireworks from Curry or eager to see the Rockets make a postseason statement, Game 1 is a must-watch for any NBA fan. Keep an eye on the matchups in the paint, the long-range shooting, and the tempo—it could all be decided in the final minutes.
The postseason has arrived. Let the drama begin.