Anticipation is building for Game 1 on Sunday, but it already feels like the Warriors and Rockets have been clashing in this highly charged playoff battle for weeks.

The tension skyrocketed after the Rockets' bold statement on April 6, where they limited Stephen Curry to just 3 points and triumphed by 10. This first-round Western Conference series isn't just another matchup—it's a thrilling clash of the Rockets' youthful energy against the Warriors' veteran prowess.

Despite being a first-round series, the narrative is rich: both teams seem frustrated by each other, a clear sign of respect as the stakes get higher. Warriors rookie center Quentin Post declared, "There’s no way they hold Steph to 3 points again.”

Curry remains the focal point of this story and historically, he’s risen above formidable defenses, from renowned defenders like Tony Allen to the infamous 2015 Finals performance where he rebounded from tough defensive strategies.

In their last encounter, the Rockets showed they're built to challenge Curry. With defenders like Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, and Dillon Brooks, they've proven capable of limiting the superstar. But will it hold up over a seven-game series?

The Warriors' frustration is compounded by the physical style the Rockets employ. Curry often finds himself battling through tough defense without being rewarded with free throw opportunities, a point underscored by Jimmy Butler, who remarked on the consistent fouling Curry endures.

As the series progresses, the intriguing questions pile up: Can the Warriors free Curry enough to dominate? Will Butler bring more aggression? Are their secondary shooters ready to capitalize on defensive lapses in guarding Curry?

Referees' decisions will also play a critical role—can the Warriors sway calls in their favor and send Curry to the line more frequently?

Steve Kerr’s remarks about physicality raise eyebrows, indicating the series will be gritty. If the Rockets push the limits, the Warriors are poised to retaliate with their own defensive intensity.

Houston faces enormous pressure to start strong at home with two wins, while the Warriors know all too well the challenges of an underdog setting in Toyota Center.

Unlike past Rockets squads, this team is dynamic—led by speed and ferocious defense rather than solely relying on shooting. Their capability to limit the Warriors to 96 points in their last matchup illustrates this.

However, historical trends show the Warriors must seize at least one victory in the first two games to avoid a daunting 0-2 deficit—an uphill battle in any playoff series.

Revisiting the unforgettable 2018 Western Conference Finals, where the Warriors clinched a dramatic Game 1 to set the tone, reflects the psychological edge that recent history grants them. Despite a rocky start, the Warriors have frequently found ways to regain momentum in these high-stakes scenarios.

It remains tough to bet against the Warriors, who boast two of the series' best players alongside a legendary defensive presence.

While it's conceivable that Houston’s Thompson could elevate his game, or the Warriors' young guns might struggle, leaning on seasoned winners is a sound strategy.

Predictions lean towards the Warriors snagging a win in Houston—likely Game 1—before returning home to build a decisive 3-1 lead. From that point, expect the Warriors to close out the series decisively on their home turf.

Final Prediction: Warriors in 6—get ready for a series that could redefine the playoff rivalry!