Rockets hit on winning formula in Game 6 win vs Warriors

The Houston Rockets will live to fight another day. That day will be on Sunday.

It wasn't easy, but the Rockets defeated the Warriors by a final score of 115-107. As this series wears on, both teams continue to make adjustments. That said, the Rockets deployed one strategy that they may not want to abandon.

It was wildly successful in this contest.

Rockets figure out optimal lineup vs Warriors

Heading into this series, there was debate about how successful the Rockets' double-big lineup might be. Some theorized that Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams together would be too slow to contain the Warriors. Others felt that they'd overwhelm a small Golden State team with brute force.

It seems the latter crowd was on the money.

Adams was on the floor for 31 minutes in this one, more than Jabari Smith Jr. (19) or Tari Eason (16). He shared most of those with Sengun. The results speak for themselves

All told, the Rockets outrebounded the Warriors. That's not the only advantage the Rockets' size gave them. They were able to limit the Warriors' driving lanes with their size and reach. Sengun's newfound ability to defend in space was especially apparent.

What else helped propel the Rockets?

Rockets' veteran leads the day

Size may be the Rockets' winning formula, but there's an exception to every rule. The diminutive Fred VanVleet was pivotal to this victory. He had 29 efficient points and 8 assists.

Sengun had an impressive statline as well with 21 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists. Jalen Green was once again disappointing, but that's an article of its own. Otherwise, the Rockets played their roles well.

They'll need to carry that intensity into Sunday's game.

Rockets on the cusp of history

Game 7. The two most exciting words in sports.

They're a bit nerve-wracking as well.

It's uncommon to come back from a 3-1 deficit, but this is anyone's series now. Houston will host the last game of this series. If they win, they'll face the Timberwolves in round 2.

It's hard to believe the Rockets could be in the second round. They can't afford to look ahead - all their focus should be on Gams 7. Still, we can start thinking about the Wolves as fans:

They tend to play big as well.