The Golden State Warriors proved their resilience Saturday night, battling past the Houston Rockets 104-93 to seize a 2-1 lead in their first-round playoff series — all without star Jimmy Butler.
With Butler sidelined by a pelvic contusion, Stephen Curry rose to the occasion. After a sluggish start, Curry exploded for 25 points over the second and third quarters, finishing with a game-high 36 points despite being double-teamed 27 times. “He’s Steph Curry,” coach Steve Kerr said. “One of the greatest players of all time.”
Gary Payton II delivered a clutch performance off the bench, scoring 16 points and sealing the victory with a reverse dunk after a key steal from Draymond Green. Buddy Hield added 17 points, nailing five critical three-pointers to keep the momentum alive.
Houston’s Jalen Green, who had torched Golden State in Game 2, was held to just nine points, and postgame frustrations boiled over in a heated exchange with Draymond Green. Still, the Warriors stayed focused.
Meanwhile, Butler, ever the motivator, posted a playful Instagram tribute to Curry, calling him “Batman” after the win. Curry, embracing the nickname, is now focused on keeping the Warriors rolling — hopefully with Butler back for Game 4.
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