Warriors Overcome Early Struggles and Butler’s Absence

The Warriors started Jonathan Kuminga and Quinten Post in place of Butler, but the Rockets jumped to a 13-point lead in the second quarter. However, led by Stephen Curry‘s 25 points over the second and third quarters, Golden State clawed their way back to trail by just two points heading into the fourth.

Curry Carries Warriors in Climatic Fourth Quarter

Curry took over in the final period, scoring nine crucial points, including a key 3-pointer with 3:05 left that gave Golden State a 95-86 lead. The two-time MVP finished with a game-high 36 points. Gary Payton II chipped in 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists off the bench.

Butler’s Influence Felt Despite His Absence

Butler, who was ruled out due to a pelvic and deep gluteal muscle contusion, had a prominent presence even from the sidelines. He posted on his Instagram a picture of the Bat-Signal with Curry’s Under Armour logo, referencing his “Batman” nickname for Curry. Despite Butler’s absence, his teammates stepped up, delivering perhaps the gutsiest performance of the season.

Rockets’ Frustration Boils Over

The Rockets’ frustration was evident after the game, with Jalen Green exchanging words with Draymond Green. Green downplayed the incident, attributing it to the competitive nature of the playoffs.

Curry, Kerr Reflect on the Win

“He’s Steph Curry,” said Warriors coach Steve Kerr. “He’s one of the greatest players of all time. He’s 37. He’s one of the most well-conditioned athletes I’ve ever seen in my life. To play 41 minutes against that kind of defense, to have a slow start and then find his rhythm, which we have seen him do countless times over the years, to hit big shots, to only turn it over twice against that kind of pressure, he was brilliant.”

“Steve Kerr, ESPN

“I just know that I need to play at a high level for us to win,” Curry said. “And so does he and so does Draymond and so does everybody. Whatever you want to call me, I’ll embrace it, and hopefully it keeps happening.”