2025 NBA Playoffs: How to Watch the Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors Game Tonight

The 2025 NBA Playoffs have already seen high drama, and tonight’s Game 2 between the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors promises to be no different. With Game 1 going in favor of the Warriors, the Rockets are under pressure to respond in front of their home crowd at the Toyota Center. If you’re wondering how to watch this exciting matchup, we’ve got you covered with all the details on where, when, and how to tune in. Here’s everything you need to know about the game, including tips on how to watch it live.

Game Overview

• Matchup: Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors
• Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025
• Time: 8:30 PM Central Time (9:30 PM Eastern Time)
• Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, TX
• Series Status: Warriors lead 1-0
• TV Coverage: ESPN
• Streaming Services: ESPN+, NBA League Pass, FuboTV, Sling TV, DirecTV Stream

The Rockets will look to rebound after a tough loss in Game 1, where despite some late-game heroics from young stars like Jalen Green, they were unable to stop the sharp shooting and experience of the Golden State Warriors. Golden State’s focus, led by the ever-dangerous Stephen Curry, will be to widen their lead to 2-0 before the series shifts to the Chase Center in San Francisco.

How to Watch Game 2

United States Viewers

• Cable/Satellite TV:
  • ESPN is the exclusive broadcaster for Game 2. Make sure to check your local listings if you’re not sure what channel ESPN is on with your cable provider.
• Streaming Options:
  • ESPN+: This is a great option for streaming the game if you have an ESPN+ subscription. This service provides coverage of every playoff game, including Game 2 between the Rockets and Warriors.
  • NBA League Pass: For NBA enthusiasts who want to watch multiple games, NBA League Pass offers access to every playoff game across the league. Fans can choose to follow the entire series or switch between different matchups in the playoffs.
  • FuboTV: This streaming service includes ESPN in its channel lineup, so it’s another way for viewers to catch the action live.
  • Sling TV: Sling offers ESPN through its Sling Orange package. If you’re a new user, you may be able to get a free trial.
  • DirecTV Stream: DirecTV’s streaming service offers ESPN as part of its package.

International Viewers

If you’re watching from outside the United States, here are the major broadcasters for Game 2:

• United Kingdom: Sky Sports NBA
• Canada: TSN, Sportsnet
• Australia: ESPN (Foxtel)
• South Africa: ESPN (DStv)
• India: Sony LIV
• Nigeria: ESPN (DStv)

It’s important to verify the time difference based on your location so you don’t miss the start of the game.

Key Storylines for Game 2

Warriors’ Dominance and Game 1 Victory

In Game 1, the Golden State Warriors put on a clinic with a well-rounded team performance. Stephen Curry showed why he’s still one of the most dominant players in the league, scoring 31 points and leading the Warriors to a 95-85 win over the Rockets. Curry’s 12-of-19 shooting, including five three-pointers, showed his efficiency on the court. His clutch shooting in the fourth quarter helped the Warriors maintain their lead and put the game out of reach for Houston, despite a strong push by the Rockets in the final minutes.

Draymond Green’s defense and leadership also played a critical role in the win. Green’s versatility in both offense and defense allows Golden State to lock down key players while remaining an offensive threat. If the Warriors can maintain this kind of team effort, they will be tough to beat in the series.

Rockets Looking to Bounce Back

Houston will look to make some necessary adjustments after their Game 1 loss. The Rockets are a young team, but they have explosive talents in players like Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr. In Game 1, Green finished with a team-high 24 points, showing his scoring ability, but he will need more support from his teammates if the Rockets are to stay competitive.

One of the key adjustments will be on defense. The Rockets need to find a way to stop Curry’s explosive scoring and reduce his impact on the game. Additionally, players like Alperen Şengün will need to impose themselves inside and help balance out Houston’s scoring attack.

Curry vs. Green: A Veteran vs. Rising Star

Game 2 will feature the battle between two dynamic players: Stephen Curry and Jalen Green. Curry, as the seasoned NBA champion and former MVP, knows how to lead his team through playoff intensity, and he will be the focal point of Golden State’s offense. On the other hand, Green represents the future of the Houston Rockets. His electrifying athleticism and scoring prowess are key to Houston’s hopes of competing in this series.

Green will need to continue developing his leadership skills while maintaining his offensive output to help Houston. The battle between these two players will certainly be one of the most exciting subplots of Game 2.

Key Matchups to Watch

While Curry will always be a key player, there are other matchups that will play a role in Game 2’s outcome:

1. Curry vs. Houston’s Defense: Curry’s shooting range, combined with his ability to create plays, makes him a nightmare for defenders. Houston will need to play strong defense without overcommitting, as Curry can easily exploit any defensive missteps. The Rockets may try different looks, including switching defenders and using double teams, but Curry’s experience will make him a challenge to contain.
2. Draymond Green vs. Alperen Şengün: Draymond Green, with his defensive acumen, will be tasked with guarding Alperen Şengün in the paint. Şengün’s skills as both a scorer and playmaker will test Green’s defensive capabilities. If Şengün can establish himself inside, it could help the Rockets space the floor and give them an edge.
3. Jimmy Butler vs. Kevin Porter Jr.: Jimmy Butler’s toughness and two-way capabilities make him a formidable opponent for any guard or wing player. Kevin Porter Jr. has shown flashes of brilliance, but Game 2 will test his ability to keep up with Butler on both ends of the floor.

Series Schedule and Future Games

• Game 1: Sunday, April 20 – Warriors 105, Rockets 98 (Golden State leads 1-0)
• Game 2: Wednesday, April 23 – Warriors at Rockets
• Game 3: Saturday, April 26 – Rockets at Warriors
• Game 4: Monday, April 28 – Rockets at Warriors
• Game 5: Wednesday, April 30 – Warriors at Rockets (if necessary)
• Game 6: Friday, May 2 – Rockets at Warriors (if necessary)
• Game 7: Sunday, May 4 – Warriors at Rockets (if necessary)

Betting Odds and Predictions

As expected, the Warriors enter Game 2 as the slight favorites. Sportsbooks have placed the Warriors as -3.5 point favorites for tonight’s game, reflecting their dominant performance in Game 1. However, if the Rockets can adapt and make the necessary adjustments, they could still steal a win on their home court.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Fans on social media have been buzzing with excitement about the series. Rockets fans are hoping that the team’s youth and energy will help them bounce back in Game 2, while Warriors fans are optimistic about another strong showing from Curry and company. As the series unfolds, it’s clear that the stakes are high, and the social media landscape will be full of reactions, memes, and predictions.

Final Thoughts

Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs between the Houston Rockets and the Golden State Warriors is shaping up to be an intense and closely watched matchup. With the Warriors leading 1-0 in the series, they’ll look to take control, while the Rockets will do everything in their power to even the score at home. Make sure to tune in tonight for all the action, whether you’re watching on TV or streaming it online.