NBA playoffs wrap 2019: Rockets hold off Warriors; Bucks win third straight game vs. Celtics

Ameer Tyree

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NBA playoffs wrap 2019: Rockets hold off Warriors; Bucks win third straight game vs. Celtics image

The Rockets are even with the Warriors at 2-2.

Houston's 112-108 victory over Golden State on Monday was its second straight win at the Toyota Center in the series.

James Harden was phenomenal for the Rockets. The reigning MVP led all scorers with 38 points and added 10 rebounds in the contest. He hit big shots and did so in an exciting fashion.

Kevin Durant continued his hot streak, as the Warriors star poured in a team-high 34 points. Just like in Game 3, Golden State launched an impressive late game surge to make things interesting at the end.

But it fell short.

Meanwhile, The Bucks have won three straight against the Celtics.

Milwaukee's 113-101 victory over Boston gave it a 3-1 lead in its second-round series.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is playing like the MVP candidate he is. The star forward totaled 39 points and 16 rebounds on the night in a dominant performance. He didn't let up down the stretch and decided to finish the game with a bang.

Kyrie Irving posted 23 points and 10 assists in the contest, but wasn't an efficient shooter. He made just seven of his 22 field goal attempts and was 1 of 7 from behind the arc.

Overcoming a 3-1 deficit will certainly be difficult against the team that recorded the best record in basketball this season. Game 5 will take place in Milwaukee on Wednesday.

Studs of the Night

George Hill tallied 15 points, four rebounds and five assists off the bench in Milwaukee's win.

Stephen Curry finished with 30 points for the Warriors.

Dud of the Night

Gordon Hayward scored two points on 1-of-5 shooting for Boston.

Highlight

Pat Connaughton blocked a 3-pointer on one end and threw down a dunk in transition on the other.

What's Next?

Portland at Denver —  The Nuggets lost in quadruple overtime Friday, but bounced back to get a crucial Game 4 win. The Trail Blazers will have to get a win in Denver, where the second-seeded Nuggets were one of the best teams in the NBA this season. The 2-2 series could take a big swing Tuesday.

 

Ameer Tyree