How Stephen Curry’s Stellar Game Led the Team Without Jimmy Butler

In a pivotal Game 3 of the first-round playoff series, the Golden State Warriors overcame the absence of Jimmy Butler to secure a 104-93 victory against the Houston Rockets. The win, orchestrated under the bright lights of Chase Center in San Francisco, propelled the Warriors to a 2-1 series lead, largely thanks to a stellar performance by Stephen Curry.

Butler, sidelined due to a pelvis injury and a deep gluteal muscle contusion sustained in Game 2, was forced to watch the action in street clothes, notably donning a full-length fur coat which was a spectacle in itself. Coach Steve Kerr humorously remarked on Butler’s choice of attire, saying, “Well first, he had a fantastic coat on. I thought he was going to be way too hot in that thing.”

Curry’s Commanding Presence on the Court

Stephen Curry, the ever-dazzling point guard, took it upon himself to fill the void left by Butler. Curry racked up 36 points, which included five 3-pointers, dished out nine assists, and grabbed seven rebounds, all in nearly 41 minutes of gameplay. His determination was evident as he navigated through the Rockets’ defense, proving once again why he’s considered one of the game’s greats.

Curry, known for his resilience and ability to play through pain, reflected on the mutual support between him and Butler, stating, “I almost didn’t need a hot pack on the sideline sitting next to him. There was plenty of heat emanating from him.” He praised Butler’s veteran presence and high basketball IQ, emphasizing how critical Butler’s support was, even from the sidelines.

Uncertain Future for Butler in Game 4

As the Warriors look ahead to Game 4, the status of Jimmy Butler remains uncertain. Kerr shared that Butler is “literally day-to-day,” with hopes that the additional rest and recovery time before the next game might favor his return. Butler’s pregame routine remains out of the public eye, adding to the suspense of his potential comeback.

Role Players Stepping Up

The absence of Butler has also spotlighted other Warriors players who have risen to the occasion. Gary Payton II and Jonathan Kuminga, for instance, have made significant contributions. Payton II scored crucial points in the fourth quarter of Game 3, while Kuminga, after being sidelined for three games, returned to the starting lineup and made his presence felt.

Kerr lauded Butler’s contributions from the bench, comparing his basketball intellect to that of Andre Iguodala. “Jimmy is so smart… He was talking to guys throughout the game, giving them advice, that was big,” Kerr appreciated.

The Road Ahead

Despite Butler’s absence, the Warriors demonstrated their depth and resilience, characteristics that have defined their playstyle throughout the season. As they prepare for Game 4, the team remains hopeful for Butler’s return, which could significantly bolster their lineup against a determined Rockets team. Meanwhile, the Rockets, under Coach Ime Udoka, acknowledge the threat posed by the Warriors, even without Butler, and are looking to adjust their strategy accordingly.

The series continues to unfold with high anticipation, as both teams vie for dominance in what promises to be an electrifying continuation of the playoffs. Whether Butler makes his much-anticipated return in Game 4 remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Warriors are not a team to be underestimated, with or without their star player.