Jimmy Butler’s Injury Clouds Warriors’ Game Against Suns

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Warriors host the Phoenix Suns tonight at Chase Center at 8 p.m. MST, but they might have to play without star forward Jimmy Butler due to a right lower back injury. Butler is listed as questionable just hours before tip-off.

Butler’s absence would be significant for the Warriors, who are already missing veteran center Al Horford, who is resting. Golden State is hoping to rebound from a 114-109 loss to the Indiana Pacers, a game that broke their promising early-season momentum.

In that loss, the Warriors struggled, allowing the Pacers to mount a 20-5 run in the final minutes. Butler, who contributed 20 points, seven assists, and six rebounds during the game, expressed frustration over the team’s performance. “We’ve got to get back to playing our roles to a T,” he said. “Everybody’s got to be on the same page. I think we’ve gotten away from that a little bit.”

Despite Butler’s efforts, the team’s starting lineup faced challenges, with all starters, minus rookie Jonathan Kuminga, finishing with negative plus-minus ratings. Butler’s influence as both a key player and emotional leader will be missed if he cannot play against the Suns.

Stephen Curry also shared his concerns, stating, “Even if you don’t have it physically at a 10 out of 10, you need to control a game with your mind. Sometimes we just make things harder for no reason.”

Head coach Steve Kerr emphasized the importance of focus, especially in a competitive Western Conference. “At the end of the season, it’s always one or two games that separate everything. We have to be sharper and be better,” he warned.

The Warriors will look to correct their recent mistakes as they face the Suns, who are currently struggling on the road. Phoenix has not secured a win away from home this season and brings a 3-4 record into tonight’s game.

As for Butler, his status remains uncertain until just before the game, adding to the suspense of a crucial matchup for the Warriors seeking to end their two-game losing streak.