Sat May 03 02:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Rockets Accused of Targeting Curry’s Injured Thumb in Game 5 Loss
**Houston, TX** – The Golden State Warriors suffered a 131-116 loss to the Houston Rockets in Game 5 of their Western Conference playoff series, a game marred by controversy surrounding the Rockets’ apparent targeting of Stephen Curry’s injured thumb.
Curry, who has been playing through a thumb injury sustained in January and reaggravated recently, was visibly affected by what the Warriors’ broadcast team and several players described as deliberate attempts by Rockets players to hit his injured hand after he released the ball. Rockets forward Dillon Brooks was singled out for his actions.
While no fouls were called on these plays, Warriors coach Steve Kerr vehemently criticized the current rule allowing such contact after the shot release, calling it “the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard.” He expressed confidence that the league would revise the rule to prevent such targeting of injured players.
Draymond Green also acknowledged the Rockets’ strategy, stating it was “pretty obvious,” while Curry himself downplayed the incident, stating that it was something he was “dealing with” and that officials should simply call fouls when necessary. However, Brooks openly defended his actions, stating he would target any injury, further fueling the controversy.
Despite the apparent targeting and a subpar shooting night (13 points, 4-12 from the field), Curry has averaged 26 points and 6 assists through the first four games of the series. The Warriors still maintain a 3-2 series lead heading into Game 6 on Friday. Curry will have one day to rest his injured thumb before the crucial matchup. The incident highlights the potential for rule changes in the NBA regarding post-shot contact and the exploitation of player injuries.
First Piper 