The Golden State Warriors are facing the Houston Rockets on Thursday night in a massive game. Steph Curry is not listed on the injury report, meaning he is available to play, which is great for the Warriors. Having created three games of separation between themselves and Houston, Golden State is looking to end their playoff hopes on Thursday night.
While a win over Houston would not mathematically eliminate the Rockets from postseason contention, it would make it very unlikely for them to run down the 10th seed. Golden State already owns the tiebreaker over the Rockets, so Houston would have to finish a game better than them in the Western Conference standings in order to make the play-in tournament.
Houston’s run to end the season has been very impressive, but a loss to the Warriors on Thursday would likely make it too little too late. The Warriors are hoping that is the case, and control their own destiny when it comes to securing a spot in the play-in tournament.
Golden State not only wants to hold off Houston, but they would like to chase down a team like the Los Angeles Lakers as well. Moving up the standings, even if it is just one spot, gives the Warriors an easier path to the playoffs. This is a very important final two weeks for Golden State as they look to finish the year strong.
