Despite battling a painful tailbone injury, Jimmy Butler returned to the Golden State Warriors’ lineup in Game 4 and delivered a heroic performance, lifting his team to a 109-106 win over the Houston Rockets. The victory places the Warriors just one win away from advancing to the Western Conference semifinals.
The intense battle inside the Chase Center saw Butler defy injury and expectation, scoring clutch baskets and showcasing the grit and leadership he’s become known for.
Butler's Grit on Display
After missing Game 3 due to a bruised tailbone, Butler suited up for Game 4 and didn't disappoint. Though visibly in discomfort, he:
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Scored 26 points
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Grabbed 7 rebounds
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Dished out 5 assists
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Made a pivotal steal and fastbreak layup in the final minute
Speaking after the game, Butler said, “Pain is temporary. Winning is everything. I wasn’t going to let my teammates down tonight.”
A Heated Finish
The Rockets came into Game 4 with a renewed sense of urgency, led by Jalen Green and Alperen Şengün, who combined for 49 points. The game remained a nail-biter into the closing seconds, with both teams trading leads in the fourth quarter.
Butler’s clutch plays, combined with Stephen Curry's late-game composure and Draymond Green’s defensive anchor, helped the Warriors fend off a desperate Houston squad.
Curry finished with 22 points, while Green added 10 points, 12 rebounds, and a game-saving block with 15 seconds remaining.
Warriors Up 3-1 in the Series
The win gives the Warriors a commanding 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. Game 5 shifts back to Houston, where the Rockets face elimination on their home court.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr praised Butler’s toughness, saying, “What Jimmy did tonight was extraordinary. He played through real pain and led with heart. That’s a champion’s mentality.”
What’s Next?
Game 5 is scheduled for May 1, 2025, in Houston. The Rockets will need to win three straight games to avoid elimination, while the Warriors will look to close out the series and rest before a likely Western Conference semifinal against either the Denver Nuggets or the Minnesota Timberwolves.
With Butler’s health still in question and the physical toll of Game 4 evident, all eyes will be on how the Warriors manage their rotations moving forward.