The Golden State Warriors are moving on to the second round of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs after defeating the Houston Rockets 103–89 in a decisive Game 7 on the road. It was one of the team’s most complete performances of the season, and head coach Steve Kerr made it clear: Draymond Green’s leadership was the key.
According to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater, Kerr credited Green for setting the emotional tone before tip-off. “Steve Kerr said Draymond Green ‘set the tone’ in a team meeting last night in Houston, admitting his early flagrant cost them in Game 6 and ensuring he’d keep his poise in Game 7,” Slater reported on X (formerly Twitter).
Green backed up his words with a dominant two-way performance. He avoided any costly flare-ups—despite a tense early foul on Fred VanVleet—and delivered a defensive masterclass. Green controlled the paint against Alperen Şengün and anchored a Warriors defense that held Houston to just 89 points.
Draymond Green’s game 7 performance
Green finished with 16 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks in a well-rounded showing that reminded everyone why he was a Defensive Player of the Year finalist. His intensity never crossed the line, and his impact on both ends helped Golden State keep its composure throughout the game.
Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center.
Warriors deliver one of their best team wins of the season
Golden State’s game plan worked to near perfection—especially in the first half, where Stephen Curry played a decoy role and was held to just 3 points. That opened up space for Buddy Hield, who erupted for 21 first-half points and finished with a playoff career-high 33.
see also
Stephen Curry reveals Warriors’ Game 7 mindset against Rockets in NBA playoffs showdown
While the Rockets made a strong push in the third quarter behind standout rookie Amen Thompson, the Warriors’ stars rose to the occasion in the second half. Curry finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in 45 minutes—a complete performance from the former MVP.
Jimmy Butler also delivered when it mattered. After a slow start, Butler finished with 20 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and a steal, providing poise and grit in key fourth-quarter possessions.
