A direct confrontation between Eastern and Western conference powerhouses highlights the contrasting styles of the Houston Rockets and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Rockets, playing at home, will continue coach Udoka's defensive focus and fast-break strategy. They will rely on Sengun's interior presence, utilizing his low-post scoring and high-post playmaking to connect offense and defense. This will be complemented by the driving ability of Jalen Green and Amen Thompson, building an efficient inside-out system. The Rockets' rebounding dominance is fundamental, aiming to initiate fast breaks after securing boards, and incorporating Jabari Smith Jr.'s outside shooting to stretch defenses. However, the Rockets' defense has weaknesses, with Sengun's mobility issues potentially exposed by pick-and-rolls, and injuries in the backcourt limiting perimeter defense. They will likely adopt an offensive-minded approach, prioritising a high-tempo attack. The Cleveland Cavaliers, playing away, feature a system built around the dual threat of Mitchell and Garland. Their pick-and-roll partnership combines ball-handling with passing, while Mitchell's off-ball movement and three-point shooting, combined with Garland's playmaking, aim to ignite the team's offense. In the paint, Mobley's all-around game, including his floor-spacing three-point shooting and rim protection, fits the team's strategy, effectively countering opponents' defensive strategies. Despite injuries in the frontcourt, which have impacted their defensive intensity, the Cavaliers will aim for a balanced offense and defense, leveraging their dual-core's ability to draw attention and create outside shooting opportunities.