Warriors Adjust Lineup for Crucial Game 6 Against Rockets

San Francisco, California – The Golden State Warriors are set to face the Houston Rockets in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series on Friday night. With the opportunity to eliminate the Rockets and advance to the second round, head coach Steve Kerr has made another adjustment to the starting lineup.

In a key move, Kerr will start Gary Payton II in place of Brandin Podziemski. This lineup will feature Payton II alongside star players Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, Buddy Hield, and Draymond Green. This marks the first time this season that this particular starting unit will take the floor together.

Payton II has averaged 6.6 points with a shooting percentage of 51.9% during the series against the Rockets. His performance, including 15.2 minutes of play per game, has been crucial for the Warriors as they lead the series 3-2.

“We’re looking for a spark and believe Gary can provide that for us tonight,” Kerr said about his decision. Fans have reacted to the lineup change with mixed opinions. Some praise the move as strategic, while others express concern over the constant changing of lineups during the playoffs.

The starting five for the Rockets includes Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Amen Thompson, and Alperen Şengün. The Rockets aim to extend the series after coming off a significant win in Game 5.

Game 6 will tip off at 6 p.m. PT at the Chase Center, where the Warriors will look to secure their spot in the next round against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

“We know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to deliver,” Butler stated before the game. The atmosphere is expected to be electric as both teams fight for survival in this playoff showdown.