Warriors Win Game 3 Against Rockets, Overcoming Jimmy Butler's Absence

In a tense playoff matchup on Saturday night, the Golden State Warriors showed resilience and skill in a 104-93 victory over the Houston Rockets, taking a 2-1 lead in their first-round Western Conference series. The game was marked by the absence of star player Jimmy Butler, who was sidelined due to a pelvic and gluteal contusion. With Butler out, the Warriors relied heavily on the exceptional performance of Stephen Curry, who notched a game-high 36 points, alongside nine assists and seven rebounds. The victory came despite the Warriors trailing by as much as 13 points in the first half, highlighting their grit and determination. Curry's ability to adapt and thrive against Houston's aggressive defense was pivotal in the second half of the game. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr praised him, stating that superstars like Curry can turn the tide in playoff settings. As Curry took charge, he was also aided by contributions from players like Gary Payton II, who scored 16 important points off the bench. This victory not only demonstrated the Warriors' depth but also sent a strong message to the Rockets and themselves: they can win even when their key player is absent. The excitement in the Chase Center was palpable, with the home crowd energized by Curry's performance. The team displayed a 'next-man-up' mentality as they adapted their game plan without Butler, showcasing a blend of offensive and defensive tenacity. Draymond Green's leadership, particularly on defense, was also critical in stifling Houston's scoring opportunities. As they look ahead to Game 4, the hopes of the Warriors are pinned on Butler's recovery, but with the way Curry and the team played, there’s renewed confidence in their ability to compete at a high level even without their star player. This playoff series is shaping up to be a tough battle of grit, skill, and strategy, underscoring the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball—where every game counts and resilience is key.