Jimmy Butler Leads Warriors to Victory Over Pelicans

SAN FRANCISCO — Jimmy Butler stepped up for the Golden State Warriors on Saturday night, leading the team to a 104-96 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. With superstar Stephen Curry sidelined, Butler showcased his skills, finishing the game with 24 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds in 37 minutes.

“Fourteen free throws and 10 assists,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “We ran everything through him and he delivered. But that’s to be expected. He’s a superstar for a reason.”

In moments critical to the team’s success, Butler made key baskets, particularly late in the third quarter and a crucial shot with just over a minute remaining in the game. His performance was pivotal as the Warriors prepare for a matchup against the reigning NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, on Tuesday.

Gary Payton II also contributed significantly, scoring 19 points and securing a career-high 11 rebounds. However, it was Butler’s leadership that propelled the Warriors against a struggling Pelicans team.

“We were trying to get him to attack that way in the beginning,” said Warriors forward Draymond Green. “And he just kept telling us, ‘They’re loading up. So we need to create some other movement because they’re just loading.’ Once everybody else started moving around him, it opened gaps, and he was able to do what he did.”

Without Curry, the Warriors called more structured plays, moving the ball faster. Green emphasized the need for Butler to be aggressive. “When Steph’s not out there, we definitely need him to be more aggressive, and he was tonight,” Green added.

Kerr also praised Butler’s performance, noting, “Jimmy doesn’t necessarily want to shoot the ball. He really prefers just making the right basketball play.” However, he acknowledged that Butler’s offensive contributions were essential in this game.

Butler maintained his philosophy during the game, emphasizing teamwork over individual play. “Sometimes,” Butler said regarding needing to be more aggressive. “But I’m still going to play basketball the right way. If you’re open, I’m going to pass you the ball.”

Despite taking a hard fall after being undercut by Pelicans guard Micah Peavy, Butler continued the game and joked about the injury. “I think we got a special team,” he said. “So let’s go out there and show that we can do something special come Tuesday.”

As the Warriors look ahead, Butler will need to deliver another standout performance if they hope to succeed against the Thunder.