2018 Playoffs WCF Game 6 vs Houston Rockets

Lore & Background

However, the game took on a mythic status due to its sheer dominance. After building an early lead, the Warriors never trailed and extended their advantage to as many as 17 points in the third quarter, cruising to a 29-point victory. The Rockets' defense, which had been impenetrable for weeks, was completely dismantled by Golden State's offense. This win tied the series 3-3, setting up a do-or-die Game 7.

Reader's Guide

On May 27, 2018, at the Toyota Center, the Golden State Warriors faced elimination down 3-2 in the Western Conference Finals against the league's top-seeded Houston Rockets. The Rockets controlled the early tempo, building a historic 27-point lead that seemed insurmountable. However, the fourth quarter became a masterclass in resilience. The Warriors erupted for 31 points, holding Houston scoreless for a critical stretch while exploiting defensive lapses and capitalizing on turnovers. Key factors included Kevin Durant's 18-point final period explosion and a hamstring injury to Chris Paul late in the game that neutralized Houston's backcourt. This victory forced a decisive Game 7, which Golden State won to advance to the NBA Finals, ultimately securing their third title in four years.

Did You Know?

• Contrary to popular belief of a collapse, this game is remembered for one of the largest margins of victory in a playoff elimination game, winning by 29 points after leading by up to 17 in the third quarter.
• Chris Paul missed Games 6 and 7 due to a hamstring injury sustained in Game 5, not during Game 6.
• Kevin Durant was outstanding in the victory, scoring 23 points on 9-of-14 shooting, leading the Warriors' offense.
• The Warriors' bench provided crucial support during the rout, as the Rockets were dominated in every aspect of the game from the third quarter onward.