The Houston Rockets' second-seed prowess is facing scrutiny after a gripping Game 4 against the Golden State Warriors. Meanwhile, Jimmy Butler is proving once again that he's a force to be reckoned with as the playoffs heat up.

Currently, the Warriors lead the series 3-1, bolstered by Butler's clutch performance down the stretch in a nail-biting 109-106 victory.

1. 'Playoff Jimmy' Delivers Again

In a dramatic showdown, fans finally got a glimpse of 'Playoff Jimmy'—and he did not disappoint. Despite a pelvic contusion that sidelined him in Game 3, Butler emerged as the game’s ultimate hero, scoring a staggering 23 of his 27 points in the second half, with 14 crucial points in the fourth quarter. His late-game composure was on full display as he sank three free throws that sealed the deal for the Warriors. This is a Butler who thrives under pressure.

2. Draymond Green's Defensive Tenacity

Despite flirting with foul trouble, Draymond Green demonstrated why he's a Defensive Player of the Year contender. With the game on the line, he stepped up to defend against Alperen Sengun, who had been dominating the night. In a critical moment, Green executed a perfect defensive play, forcing Sengun to miss a shot that would have tied the game. Numbers can be deceiving; his impact was felt far beyond his stats.

3. Jalen Green Struggles

On the flip side, Jalen Green's performance has been disappointing for the Rockets. For the third time in four games, Houston's leading scorer ended up virtually invisible, struggling with his rhythm and confidence. His limited contribution led head coach Ime Udoka to bench him at a critical point in the game, underscoring the trust issues brewing in the Rockets' camp.

4. Brandin Podziemski Shines

In a breakout performance, Brandin Podziemski showed up just when the Warriors needed him. After a quiet start to the series, he exploded with 26 points, including six three-pointers, outshining even stars like Curry in the shooting department. Podziemski's confidence is infectious, proving that he can bring the heat in high-stakes situations.

5. Curry's Subtle Leadership

In an unusual twist, Stephen Curry played more of a supporting role this game, taking only 12 shots after a spectacular prior outing. Rather than forcing the issue, he allowed Podziemski and Butler to take the reins. This strategic maneuver not only preserved his energy for future games but also added an element of unpredictability to the Warriors' offense. A selfless superstar knows how to create pathways to victory.

As the series progresses, it's clear that the Rockets must adapt quickly if they wish to avoid an early exit, while the Warriors seem poised to deepen their playoff run.