Warriors, Rockets, Timberwolves, Lakers Enter Game 5s Amid Injuries

The Golden State Warriors lead the Houston Rockets 3-1 in their playoff series and are poised to advance, with Houston needing a major turnaround from key players like Jalen Green to avoid elimination. Injuries are impacting both teams, as Houston will be without Jae’Sean Tate and Golden State is managing minor issues with Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler III, though all are expected to play. In another series, the Minnesota Timberwolves also hold a 3-1 advantage over the Los Angeles Lakers, who may get a boost if Maxi Kleber returns from injury. Elsewhere in the NBA playoffs, the Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Oklahoma City Thunder have all advanced to the next round, with several first-round matchups still in progress. The playoff bracket is narrowing as thirteen teams continue to battle for the championship. These developments highlight the crucial role of player health, momentum, and potential lineup changes as teams fight to stay alive in the postseason.