Alright, we’re here. Game 7. The Houston Rockets just pulled off an unbelievable Game 6 win, tying the series 3-3 against the Warriors and sending everyone into a frenzy. Houston was dead in the water a few games ago, and now, with everything on the line, they’ve got one last chance to punch their ticket to the next round. This isn’t just a playoff game—it’s a statement. Can the Rockets keep their fire burning long enough to send Golden State packing, or are we in for a classic Warriors chokehold in Game 7?
The big question on everyone’s mind is—is Fred VanVleet playing tonight? Well, buckle up because the answer is yes. That ankle injury everyone was panicking about? Nothing serious. FVV is ready to go and should be the glue that holds the squad together. The Rockets need his veteran leadership, clutch shot-making, and pesky defense more than ever in this do-or-die game. And it’s not just Fred we need to talk about…
Houston Rockets’ Injury Report
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the injury situation for the Rockets. The good news? It’s mostly clean, aside from a couple of bumps and bruises. Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks, and Alperen Sengun are all good to go. So, no worries there—unless, of course, you’re a Warriors fan.
Dec 20, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet (5) reacts after making a basket during the third quarter against the Atlanta Hawks at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
But for the real pain—Jock Landale (knee) is out for Game 7. Not exactly a huge blow, but let’s be honest, Landale’s been providing solid minutes off the bench, and his absence could put more pressure on Steven Adams. Jae’Sean Tate is also ruled out with an ankle injury, which isn’t ideal, but considering his role as a depth piece, it won’t completely wreck the Rockets’ game plan.
Houston Rockets’ Depth Chart vs. Warriors – Game 7
Heading into Game 7, the Rockets are feeling good about their chances. The Rockets’ mix of young talent and veteran leadership is coming together at the perfect time. With Alperen Sengun, Steven Adams, and Fred VanVleet stepping up, their depth has become a real problem for the Warriors. Now it’s time to dive into how the Rockets stack up across the board.
POSITION
STARTER
2nd UNIT
3rd UNIT
PG
Fred VanVleet
Amen Thompson
Aaron Holiday
SG
Jalen Green
Dillon Brooks
Reed Sheppard
SF
Amen Thompson
Tari Eason
Dillon Brooks
PF
Dillon Brooks
Jabari Smith Jr.
Tari Eason
C
Alperen Sengun
Steven Adams
Jock Landale (O)
In Game 6, Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams were absolute monsters. Along with Fred VanVleet, this trio single-handedly propelled the Rockets to a much-needed win. And the Warriors? Well, they just couldn’t do anything about it.
Sengun’s growth has been evident all series long. While Draymond Green got the better of him in a critical one-on-one match-up earlier in the series, the Rockets’ young center wasn’t backing down. In Game 6, Sengun dropped 21 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals, proving he can dominate even against one of the best defenders in the league. He’s got those tricky moves down low, and even Draymond couldn’t keep up for long.
STEVEN ADAMS TONIGHT:
17 POINTS
5 REBOUNDS
3 BLOCKS
100% FG
PLAYOFF RISER
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 3, 2025
Meanwhile, Steven Adams was all about the dirty work. The big man might not stuff the stat sheet every night, but when you’ve got a season-high 31 minutes off the bench, 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 blocks, and the energy to keep the Warriors’ defense guessing, you’ve made your mark. The Rockets are a plus-53 when Adams is on the floor, and that’s no coincidence.
Now, the Warriors have to deal with this duo for Game 7. Draymond Green can only do so much on his own, and with Quinten Post, who doesn’t have the experience, and Kevon Looney, who’s been inconsistent, the Warriors’ frontcourt is facing a serious test. If they don’t step it up, this series could be over faster than you can say “Game 7.”
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