Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets predicted starting lineups and depth charts for Game 2 (April 23) | 2025 NBA Playoffs

The Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets are set to clash in Game 2 of their first-round NBA playoff series at Toyota Center on Wednesday. The Rockets surrendered their home-court advantage after Steph Curry and company delivered a stellar road performance, securing a 95-85 victory in Game 1 to take a 1-0 series lead.

With Game 2 approaching, the pressure is squarely on Ime Udoka and his Rockets to respond and avoid falling into a 2-0 hole. The task won’t be easy, as they’re facing a battle-tested Warriors squad loaded with veteran leadership and championship pedigree.

For Houston, the first order of business will be improving its shooting, particularly from beyond the arc. The Rockets managed just six 3-pointers in Game 1, while the Warriors knocked down 12. Additionally, Houston must tighten its transition defense after allowing 16 fast-break points and surrendering 25 points off 16 turnovers.

While the Rockets contained Curry reasonably well, the Warriors’ superstar still found ways to score 31 points, including a pair of signature deep threes. To even the series, Houston will need to elevate its defensive efforts not only against Curry but also against Jimmy Butler, who remains a key factor for Golden State.

Meanwhile, Steve Kerr’s primary concern will be addressing the Warriors' struggles on the glass. Golden State was outrebounded 52-36 and gave up a staggering 22 offensive boards.

Although the Warriors escaped with a win in Game 1, another lopsided rebounding effort could prove costly as the series progresses. Golden State will need to shore up its presence in the paint to maintain control moving forward.

Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets Injury Reports for Apr. 23

Golden State Warriors injury report

The Warriors will enter Game 2 with a fully healthy roster as no players are listed on the injury report.

Houston Rockets injury report

The Rockets have two players on the injury report ahead of Game 2. Jae'Sean Tate (right ankle impingement) and Jock Landale (knee) have been ruled out of the game.

Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets Starting Lineups and Depth Charts for Apr. 23

Golden State Warriors starting lineup and depth charts

The Warriors' projected starting lineup for Game 2 is expected to feature Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski.

Point Guard	Shooting Guard	Small Forward	Power Forward	Center
Stephen Curry	Buddy Hield	Moses Moody	Jimmy Butler III	Draymond Green
Pat Spencer	Gary Payton II	Jonathan Kuminga	Gui Santos	Quinten Post
Taran Armstrong				Kevon Looney

Houston Rockets starting lineup and depth charts

The Rockets' projected starting lineup for Game 2 is expected to feature Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun.

Point Guard	Shooting Guard	Small Forward	Power Forward	Center
Fred VanVleet	Jalen Green	Amen Thompson	Dillon Brooks	Alperen Sengun
Aaron Holiday	Reed Sheppard	Tari Eason	Jabari Smith Jr.	Steven Adams
	Cam Whitmore		Jeff Green