The Golden State Warriors appeared to be dealt a potentially crushing blow in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets when Jimmy Butler was forced out of the game early with a pelvic contusion. After missing Game 3 due to that injury, though, the Warriors have received a fantastic update on Butler as they prepare to attempt to take a 3-1 lead over the Rockets on Monday night.
Even without Butler, the Warriors managed to grind out a win over the Rockets in Game 3, thanks in large part to a masterful performance from Stephen Curry. Houston once again had no answer for Curry, as he scored 36 points, dished out nine assists, and hauled in seven rebounds. When all was said and done, Golden State picked up a huge 104-93 victory on the road, setting the stage for a wildly important contest in Game 4.
Warriors to get Jimmy Butler Boost for Game 4
Butler was dominant for the Warriors in their Game 1 victory over Houston, scoring 25 points while also adding seven rebounds and six assists. It seemed like he could miss an extended period of time, though, when he was forced out of Game 2 early after taking a hard fall late in the first quarter. Houston would go on to win this game 109-94.
It wasn’t much of a surprise to see Butler miss Game 3, but there was hope within the building that he would be able to return for Game 4. After reports emerged before tip-off indicating the team was optimistic Butler would be able to play, it was confirmed that the Warriors superstar forward would be making a surprise return to the court after missing just one game with this concerning injury.
“Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler (pelvic contusion) will play in Game 4 tonight vs. Houston Rockets after missing previous game, league sources tell me,” Chris Haynes reported in a post on X.
Jimmy Butler, Warriors Looking to Take Commanding 3-1 Series Lead Over Rockets
Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty ImagesJimmy Butler, Golden State Warriors
Folks were concerned that the Warriors wouldn’t have enough firepower to take down the Rockets without Butler, but Curry proved otherwise in Game 3. With so much on the line in Game 4, though, Golden State will be expecting Houston to throw their best punch, which is why having Butler at their disposal is so important. Butler always raises his game to another level in the postseason, which he proved once again in Game 1 of this series.
Defending home court would be huge for the Warriors in this series, especially after they managed to steal a win in enemy territory to open this battle. Butler may not be 100% healthy, but any attention he can draw off of Curry could be just what Golden State needs to pick up a victory and head back to Houston with a 3-1 series lead.
There’s a lot on the line heading into Game 4, but the Warriors will be happy to have Curry’s new partner-in-crime at their disposal for this clash. Tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET on Monday night.
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