Stephen Curry rested his head on Jimmy Butler’s right shoulder as the two stars shared a postgame moment after Golden State’s 104-93 win over the Houston Rockets, which gave the Warriors a 2-1 lead in their first-round playoff series. Butler, who was sidelined with a pelvic injury and wearing a full-length fur coat, was unable to play in Game 3 but still played a key role in supporting his team.
Curry had a spectacular performance, scoring 36 points, including five 3-pointers, and adding nine assists and seven rebounds in nearly 41 minutes. With Butler out due to a deep gluteal muscle contusion suffered in Game 2, Curry was determined to step up.
While Curry and Butler both dealt with injuries to their lower backs, Curry appreciated Butler’s presence even while on the bench. He jokingly mentioned the heat emanating from Butler’s fur coat, adding that it helped keep him warm during the game. Curry also praised Butler’s leadership, saying that his veteran presence on the sidelines provided valuable energy and insight to the team.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Butler’s status for Game 4 remains uncertain, describing him as “day-to-day.” Butler had an MRI after his injury and was continuing to undergo recovery. Kerr was hopeful that an extra day of rest could help Butler recover in time for the next game.
Gary Payton II, who scored 16 points, 11 of them in the fourth quarter, echoed Curry’s sentiment, saying the team had to step up while Butler was out and hoped to have him back for Game 4. Jonathan Kuminga, who had been out of the rotation for three games, made his fourth career playoff start in Butler’s absence.
Butler was injured in Game 2 after being fouled by Amen Thompson late in the first quarter. The fall left him with pain in his tailbone, and though he briefly returned to shoot free throws, he was unable to continue playing. Kerr expressed his gratitude for Butler’s contributions from the bench, noting his high basketball IQ and the valuable advice he provided to teammates.
Despite Butler’s absence, the Warriors continued to perform well, and Houston coach Ime Udoka acknowledged that Golden State remained dangerous without Butler. However, the Rockets couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities, particularly in the paint.
