Warriors Secure Final Playoff Spot as Rockets Fall to Mavericks

The Houston Rockets' defeat in overtime against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, with a final score of 146-136, officially eliminated them from contention for the 2024 postseason, thereby solidifying the Golden State Warriors' position as the last team to secure a playoff berth under the helm of coach Steve Kerr.

Following their baffling overtime loss against Dallas on Sunday, the Rockets (38-40) were officially ousted from the running for the 2024 postseason. This defeat marks their fifth consecutive loss following an impressive 11-game winning streak.

Despite Houston's ability to tie the Golden State Warriors in the final Western Conference standings, they lack the tiebreaker advantage, having lost all three head-to-head matchups this season. Currently, the Warriors hold the 10th position in the standings, securing the last spot in the play-in tournament.

Powered by the resurgence of Jalen Green, the Rockets briefly closed the gap in the standings to just a half-game (albeit without the potential tiebreaker) after a triumph over the Portland Trail Blazers on March 25, marking the ninth victory in their notable 11-game streak.


However, Golden State embarked on an impressive 6-0 streak in their next six games, including notable road triumphs in Miami and Orlando on back-to-back nights, along with dominant wins over Dallas and Houston. Meanwhile, the Rockets struggled with a 2-4 record during the same span, highlighted by their defeat to Steph Curry and the Warriors.

These contrasting six-game stretches have effectively decided the outcome of what was once a compelling race, now mathematically concluded despite four remaining games in the NBA's 2023-24 regular season.

The regular season draws to a close on Sunday, April 14, with the play-in tournament for both conferences commencing on April 16.

Source TheScore : Rockets' loss to Mavs gives Warriors final postseason spot
Source Rocketswire : Rockets officially eliminated from 2024 postseason contention