If there was ever a moment that showcased Stephen Curry’s importance to the Golden State Warriors, it was Thursday night. The Warriors stumbled to a 117-93 defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2, looking disjointed and at times completely lost without their star guard. With the series now tied at 1-1, all eyes turn to San Francisco for Game 3 on Saturday, but the Warriors will have to navigate this pivotal matchup without Curry, who is expected to be sidelined through at least Game 5. To keep their postseason aspirations alive, they need to secure at least one win over the next three games before they can count on his return.
In Curry’s absence, the pressure has shifted dramatically to Jimmy Butler. And while he’s shown flashes of brilliance as a “connector” for the team, his offensive contributions have left fans wanting more. In Game 2, Butler attempted just nine shots through the first three quarters—far from what the Warriors needed to fill the scoring void created by Curry’s injury. Butler is certainly capable of delivering when it counts, yet he seemed hesitant, focusing more on facilitating than attacking the basket when his scoring was most essential.
One can argue that Butler’s impact isn’t measured solely in shot attempts. He’s been instrumental in orchestrating plays and creating opportunities for his teammates, as his mere presence on the court can open up space and mismatches. However, too often in Game 2, he appeared more like a passive spectator rather than an assertive leader, opting to pass to teammates in less favorable positions instead of commanding the offense himself. This approach is particularly puzzling when the stakes are so high and his team has been craving a consistent scoring threat.
In Game 1, Butler’s stat line of 20 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists seemed impressive but was actually reflective of a pattern. He played as an opportunist, making plays when they were handed to him rather than aggressively seeking out scoring opportunities. There’s an element of success to that, as he does create better chances for others, like Buddy Hield, who stepped up in crucial moments. What’s clear, though, is that Butler’s reluctance to assert himself at key times raises questions about his approach.
While Butler himself espouses a philosophy of playing “the right way,” one can’t help but wonder if this is simply a cover for the reluctance that’s crept into his game. After Game 2, his comments about not feeling any burden to score yet being capable of it when needed seem a bit contradictory, especially given the context. If not now, during a critical playoff match without Curry, then when?
Injuries could factor into Butler’s performance. A pelvic and gluteal contusion suffered earlier in the playoffs might be affecting his aggressiveness. Perhaps he’s adopting a more strategic mindset, pacing himself for when he can truly take control. Or, and this may be the most unsettling thought of all, could it be that he’s simply not capable of stepping fully into that role anymore?
As he maintains his role as a support player, the talk around Butler as “Robin” to Curry’s “Batman” could be telling. At 35, his body has endured plenty of playoff battles, which can weigh heavily on a player’s performance. While he remains a formidable player, the question lingers: can he rediscover the assertiveness needed to lead the team in moments of adversity?
For the Warriors to have any hope of advancing through the playoffs, Butler needs not only to maintain his high-level play but also to tap into the scoring prowess that can elevate his team. With Curry on the sidelines, it’s time for Butler to seize the opportunity and prove he can be that dynamic force, providing the critical scoring that could turn the tide for Golden State. If he can channel that energy, he may just find himself lifting the Warriors once more when they need it the most.
