The Houston Rockets have failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity to beat their nemesis in the playoffs, the Golden State Warriors, as they lost Game 6 of the Western Conference semi-finals 118-113, officially eliminating them from the playoffs. The Rockets weren't able to beat a Kevin Durant-less Warriors team at home, and according to head coach Mike D'Antoni, this is something that will be in their minds for quite a long time.

Despite a valiant effort from superstar James Harden, who finished with 35 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, the Rockets weren't able to subdue to Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, who finished with 33 and 27 markers respectively. The Splash Brothers were also able shots when they mattered the most, which eventually led to the Rockets' downfall.

This is the second straight year that the Rockets' season ended at the hands of the Warriors, as the former lost to the latter in last year's Western Conference Finals as well. So it is understandable for them to be haunted by their failures against the Dubs.

The Warriors now await the winner of the Denver Nuggets-Portland Trail Blazers series.

As for the Rockets, it is now time to evaluate their options in the offseason. Not only did the Warriors beat them without Durant, but they also did it with Curry struggling offensively for most of the series. The moves they will make this summer will be important for the team's future.

This is going to be a tough pill to swallow for Houston, but they have no choice but to deal with it.