Houston Rockets: 5 keys for rest of series vs. Warriors

3. Chris Paul needs to keep his cool

Chris Paul is well aware that this could be his last best chance at a title. He has a strong group of players surrounding him and he has managed to stay healthy going into the playoffs. On the flip side, Paul played in just 58 games this season and is on his last legs. He needs to help the Rockets in the postseason, not be a liability, and Game 1 was certainly a wake-up call for everyone involved.

Paul was hit with a second technical late in Game 1 and was thus ejected late in the fourth quarter. He was also fined $35,000 for his contact with an official. All in all, Game 1 was one to forget for Paul. His emotional side took over, and his numbers were reflective of a game where he was not able to focus on what was important.

Paul went 5-for-9 from the floor and 3-for-6 from downtown. To add to his efficient but uncharacteristic shooting numbers, he finished with just four assists. For the Rockets to have any chance at winning this series, Paul needs to be at his best and avoid the emotional side of the game. It only works against him, and avoiding those situations will be key for his success.

Paul is a very important player for the Rockets. Not only is he their second-best offensive option, but his elite defense helps cover Stephen Curry. The bitter takeaway from Game 1 is Curry should likely have fouled out with just over a minute left in the game, but instead came up with a game-clinching 3-pointer. This will be a tough pill to swallow for the Rockets, but overcoming the adversity of Game 1 and stealing a road win in Game 2 may be just what the doctor ordered.