Three pressing questions the Warriors must answer in do-or-die Game 7 vs. Rockets

HOUSTON – Everything is on the line Sunday night as the Warriors face the Rockets in a win-or-go-home Game 7. A win sends them to Minnesota, while a loss ends their season, despite an all-in trade for Jimmy Butler. Steph Curry has been elite in Game 7s, averaging 32.6 points across five appearances. Draymond Green and Butler also have proven playoff resumes. The real questions lie with the supporting cast.

Coach Steve Kerr has used four different starting lineups so far. Buddy Hield, once effective, has struggled lately, scoring just four points combined in the last two games. Gary Payton II, who replaced Brandin Podziemski in Game 6, had little impact and is now questionable due to illness. The lineup featuring Curry, Podziemski, Hield, Butler, and Green has been most effective statistically. Moses Moody remains an option, especially since that group went 16-3 in the regular season.

Houston’s zone defense has caused the Warriors major problems. The team emphasized zone-breaking strategies in film sessions, and Podziemski believes simplifying the approach is key. Still, the Warriors have struggled to hit open shots, shooting just 27.8% on open threes in their last two games.

Kerr said “everything is on the table,” including using Jonathan Kuminga, who defended Jalen Green well earlier in the series. Kuminga could offer offensive spark and defensive energy. Kevon Looney, another trusted veteran, might also see more minutes due to his rebounding ability. With Rockets center Steven Adams dominating the glass, Looney could play a key role.

Game 7 will test Golden State’s depth, chemistry, and resilience under pressure.