In a nail-biting showdown on Monday night, Jimmy Butler made a triumphant return from a pelvic injury, leading the Golden State Warriors to a dramatic 109-106 victory over the Houston Rockets. With just 58.7 seconds remaining, Butler converted three crucial free throws, and his game-clinching rebound with only four seconds left sealed the deal. He finished the game with an impressive 27 points, significantly contributing to the Warriors' 3-1 lead in their first-round playoff series.
The intensity of the game reached its peak when Fred VanVleet missed a pressure-packed 3-pointer at the buzzer, allowing the Warriors to secure the win. As the teams prepare to head back to Houston for Game 5 on Wednesday night, the seventh-seeded Warriors are looking to eliminate the No. 2 seed Rockets on their home court.
Brandin Podziemski also stepped up for the Warriors, scoring 26 points, while Stephen Curry contributed 17 points during the frantic final moments. Notably, Buddy Hield hit a pivotal go-ahead 3-pointer with 3:32 left on the clock, finishing the game with 15 points after being elevated to the starting lineup.
The Rockets fought hard to stay in the game, with Alperen Sengun scoring 31 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. He made a critical basket with 40 seconds left, narrowing the gap to just one point. Additionally, VanVleet managed to tie the game with a 3-pointer at the 1:20 mark, closing his night with 25 points. The fierce competition was evident, as both teams battled for every possession.
The second quarter showcased the heightened emotions of the game, featuring four technical fouls and a flagrant foul. A particularly intense moment occurred when Draymond Green set a hard screen on Houston’s Amen Thompson, leading to a heated exchange between players. Curry was assessed a technical for “taunting” Dillon Brooks, who also received a technical foul, along with Green.
Tempers flared again with 2:44 left in the quarter when Green received a Flagrant 1 foul after pushing Tari Eason to the ground. Despite the physicality, both teams avoided additional technicals during a brief review of the tussle between Warriors rookie Quinten Post and Houston’s Jabari Smith Jr..
Butler's performance was particularly remarkable as he returned after missing Game 3 due to a pelvic contusion and a deep gluteal muscle bruise sustained from a hard fall in Game 2. He shot 7 for 12 in his 40 minutes on the court, demonstrating resilience and skill in a high-stakes playoff environment.
In conclusion, the Warriors' victory not only showcased Butler's ability to perform under pressure but also highlighted the team's depth and determination as they look to advance in the playoffs. With Game 5 looming, the Warriors are poised to capitalize on their momentum and secure a spot in the next round.
