The Golden State Warriors defeated the Houston Rockets 109-106 in a closely contested game four Monday night, taking a three-games-to-one lead in their Western Conference first-round playoff series. The series has been marked by physical play and verbal exchanges between the teams.
Golden State’s Jimmy Butler returned from injury to lead his team, scoring 27 points, 14 of which came in the fourth quarter. Butler also secured the game-clinching rebound in the final seconds.
Warriors forward Draymond Green was involved in several contentious moments during the game. He received a technical foul in the second quarter following a confrontation that also resulted in technicals for teammate Stephen Curry and Rockets forward Dillon Brooks.
Minutes later, Green was assessed a flagrant foul for contact with Tari Eason after a loose ball. Eason also received a technical foul.
The incidents followed a post-Game 3 interaction between Green and Rockets guard Jalen Green, who commented on Draymond Green's approach, stating he "can’t really do much of anything else, so talking is his only way."
Rookie Brandin Podziemski contributed significantly for the Warriors, scoring 26 points, including six three-pointers. Stephen Curry finished with 17 points.
For the Rockets, Alperen Sengun led with 31 points and 10 rebounds. Fred VanVleet added 26 points, shooting eight-of-twelve from behind the arc. Jalen Green struggled, scoring eight points on eight shots.
The Rockets held a seven-point lead at halftime, but the Warriors opened the third quarter with an 18-1 run. Houston fought back, tying the game late in the fourth quarter before the Warriors pulled away.
Golden State's defense made a difference late, including a stop by Draymond Green on Sengun's potential go-ahead shot attempt in the closing seconds. The final Warriors Score was 109.
The Warriors - Rockets series returns to Houston for Game 5, where Golden State will have an opportunity to advance to the Western Conference semifinals. Fans can follow the playoff schedule and overall series coverage.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr described Jimmy Butler's return performance as "Just amazing."
