The Warriors suffered a game-changing loss when Jimmy Butler exited in the first half with a pelvic contusion and was ruled out for the rest of the game. Tensions mounted between the sides in the second half, and the Rockets’ aggressive win evened the series 1-1.

The Boston Celtics are back in the NBA playoffs and will try to defend their title in 2025. Up first for the reigning champs is a first-round series against the Orlando Magic and Boston took care of business at home to kick things off by winning Game 1,

Houston maintained a double-digit lead for the entire second half, powered by Jalen Green on one of his best nights. The Rockets' leading scorer tied a Rockets playoff record with 38 points on 13-of-25 shooting, plus one of the best dunks of the playoffs.