How to watch Warriors vs. Rockets, Game 3

Golden State basketball is on the way! Come join our game thread and chat about tonight’s matchup here.

The Golden State Warriors bring Game 3 of their first round series against the Houston Rockets to the Bay on Saturday night. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 PM PT in San Francisco and can be watched on ABC.

Previously with the Warriors:

After winning the series opener, the Warriors were blown out in Game 2 on Wednesday night, falling to the Rockets, 109-94. Houston ramped up the physicality in the second matchup, and while Golden State was initially prepared for it, an early injury to star forward Jimmy Butler completely shifted the momentum.

Butler was undercut by Rockets player Amen Thompson while battling for a rebound and crashed hard to the floor. He exited the game and did not return as the subsequent MRI results revealed a pelvis contusion and a deep gluteal muscle bruise.

Without Butler, the Warriors struggled to regain their footing. Houston dominated the glass (47-33 rebounding advantage) and continued applying relentless defensive pressure. Jalen Green led all scorers with 38 points, fueling the Rockets’ runaway win.

What to watch for tonight:

All eyes are on Butler’s availability for Saturday night’s pivotal Game 3 at the Chase Center. The Warriors benefited from an extra day of rest, and although Butler’s injury looked concerning, he is officially listed as questionable, with head coach Steve Kerr expressing “relative optimism” that he could suit up.

Regardless of Butler’s status, the Warriors know they’ll need to make key adjustments in Game 3. Houston is likely to maintain its physical approach and continue crowding Stephen Curry, daring others to step up offensively. Role players like Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, and Buddy Hield will be critical and should get a boost shooting in front of a home playoff crowd. Rookie big man Quinten Post could also see more minutes after a strong Game 2 showing where he hit 4-of-8 from beyond the arc.

Ultimately, expect a sharper, more energized Warriors squad in Game 3. Between Butler’s injury, Houston’s physicality, and Draymond Green’s Defensive Player of the Year snub, Golden State enters this one with plenty of motivation — and a big chip on their shoulder.

Enjoy the game Dub Nation. GO WARRIORS!!!

Projected Starters

Warriors: Steph Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Jimmy Butler, Moses Moody, Draymond Green

Rockets: Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks, Alperen Sengun

How to watch NBA Playoffs First Round Game 3

Who: Golden State Warriors (1 - 1) vs. Houston Rockets (1 - 1)

When: Saturday, April 26th, at 5:30 p.m. PT

Where: Chase Center, San Francisco, California

TV: ABC (available on fuboTV)