Warriors Face Tough Blow with Butler’s Injury in Game 2 Against Rockets
The Golden State Warriors hit a snag in their playoff run on Wednesday night as star forward Jimmy Butler took a hard fall late in the first quarter, resulting in a pelvis contusion that forced him to exit Game 2 against the Houston Rockets. The loss stung as the Warriors fell 109-94, leveling the series at 1-1.
“Obviously feel terrible for Jimmy,” Warriors head coach Steve Kerr shared after the game. The uncertainty surrounding Butler’s condition looms large as he prepares for an MRI set for Thursday in San Francisco. The team will be anxiously awaiting the results, hoping for favorable news.
Butler’s departure after just eight minutes of play had a significant impact on the Warriors’ offense. The team was already struggling to find their rhythm, and losing such a pivotal player only compounded their woes. With just two days to regroup before their next matchup at Chase Center on Saturday night, Kerr faces tough decisions about how to fill the void left by Butler’s potential absence.
“Well, if Jimmy’s out, we have to rethink everything,” Kerr mentioned when asked about Jonathan Kuminga possibly stepping into the starting role. Kuminga had seen his role diminish towards the end of the regular season but did manage to contribute 11 points during his 26 minutes in the Game 2 loss, showcasing he can step up when called upon.
The pivotal moment of Butler’s injury came with 2:28 remaining in the first quarter. As he leaped to secure a defensive rebound from Amen Thompson’s missed shot, Thompson collided with him, causing Butler to fall hard on his tailbone area. Despite the discomfort, Butler made one of two free throws before signaling to the bench with 1:51 left in the quarter. His struggle to move prompted immediate concern, leading to his eventual exit in the second quarter.
Draymond Green, Butler’s teammate, offered a glimmer of hope, stating that he had conversed with Butler post-game, and his teammate assured him he would be fine. “Jimmy’s only going to tell you he feels good,” Green said, noting his trust in Butler’s word.
The potential loss of Butler would be a punishing setback for the Warriors. Since his arrival on February 8, the team has posted a remarkable 25-8 record across regular season, play-in, and playoff appearances, with Butler pivotal in rejuvenating the squad. His presence not only eases the scoring burden on Stephen Curry but also stabilizes the crucial moments when Curry is off the floor. Moreover, Butler’s influence has helped propel Golden State’s defense to the top of the NBA charts since he joined the squad.
Fans have witnessed Butler embracing his “Playoff Jimmy” persona, as evidenced by his performances in the postseason. Following a standout regular-season finale against the LA Clippers where he recorded 30 points and nine assists, he has continued to deliver in critical moments, amassing 38 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists against the Memphis Grizzlies in the play-in game, and featuring a stellar 25-point, 7-rebound, 6-assist, and 5-steal outing in Game 1.
Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski also faced challenges in Game 2, limited to just 14 minutes due to an illness. Kerr mentioned that Podziemski was struggling from something he ate and required an IV at halftime. Although he returned to the court, he ended up going 0-for-5 on the night, adding to the team’s difficulties.
As the Warriors head back to San Francisco, they carry the hopes of regaining home-court advantage while holding their breath for Butler’s MRI results. “Hopefully, Jimmy will be able to play,” Kerr said, emphasizing the need to consider other options if Butler is sidelined. The franchise’s quest for a championship hinges on how they navigate the upcoming challenges, and Butler’s health will be a key factor in their playoff success.
