Warriors’ Jimmy Butler Faces Uncertain Game 3 Status After Injury

HOUSTON, Texas — Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler may miss Game 3 of the NBA playoffs due to a deep glute muscle contusion, according to league sources. An MRI revealed no structural damage following Butler’s injury from a fall in the first quarter of Game 2 against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night.

The Warriors and Butler now have two days to prepare for the pivotal matchup at Chase Center in San Francisco, where the series is tied 1-1. Butler’s availability for the game, set for 5:30 p.m. PST on Saturday, will depend on how well he responds to treatment in the coming days.

In a tense moment during Game 2, Butler collided with teammate Klay Thompson after attempting to secure a defensive rebound. The impact caused Butler to come down hard on his tailbone, and he was subsequently ruled out after experiencing significant pain. The Warriors struggled in Butler’s absence, ultimately losing to the Rockets 109-94.

“If Jimmy’s out, we have to rethink everything,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said post-game. “Like rotations, who starts and the best combinations and all that stuff.”

Butler has significantly impacted the Warriors’ performance since his arrival on February 8. The team holds a 25-9 overall record, including regular season and postseason matches, during that time. He has emerged as a key player, helping lift the Warriors’ defense to the top rank in the league.

His stellar postseason play includes impressive performances with 30 points and nine assists in a loss to the Clippers and 38 points in a win over Memphis.

Warriors fans are hopeful for Butler’s return as he is seen as vital to the team’s success. Social media reactions range from optimism to concern, with fans expressing support for “Playoff Jimmy.”

Butler’s situation also resonates with teammate Stephen Curry, who has dealt with injuries in the past. “That is just a pain tolerance thing,” Curry commented regarding his previous pelvic contusion. “Hopefully it’s just a contusion, you could play through that eventually.”

As the team gears up for Game 3, Butler’s challenge will be to manage the pain and decide if he can take the court.