The Golden State Warriors have been on an impressive upward trajectory since acquiring Jimmy Butler, and many now view them as legitimate NBA championship contenders. However, one major concern looms over their playoff push—the recent injury suffered by Stephen Curry in their matchup against the Toronto Raptors. Head coach Steve Kerr addressed the situation.
Curry underwent an MRI, which revealed no structural damage following the injury scare that forced him to miss the final moments of the Warriors’ 117-114 victory over Toronto on Thursday night. Golden State will now embark on a six-game road trip, beginning with a matchup against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday.
According to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk, Kerr remains optimistic about Curry’s return at some point during the trip. “Steve Kerr said he is hopeful that Steph Curry will rejoin the Warriors at some point on this road trip. He will be re-evaluated on Monday. The Warriors play at Miami on Tuesday, at New Orleans on Friday, San Antonio next Sunday, Memphis the following Tuesday, and at the Lakers on Thursday,” Youngmisuk reported.
In Curry’s absence, Draymond Green stepped up with 21 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, leading Golden State to victory. Reserve center Quinten Post added 18 points off the bench, while Jonathan Kuminga contributed 16. Curry left the game after scoring 17 points, and Butler made the defensive stop that sealed the win, capping off a triple-double performance with 16 points, 12 assists, and 11 rebounds.
Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts in the first half against the Brooklyn Nets
Jimmy Butler: the key factor in Curry’s absence?
Since joining Golden State, Butler has proven to be much more than just another addition to the roster. His leadership, defensive tenacity, and ability to create offense have fueled one of the Warriors’ best stretches of the season. Now, with Curry sidelined, Butler’s presence becomes even more critical. Can he be the player to keep the Warriors in the title race while their franchise star recovers?
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The Butler effect in Golden State
Butler has seamlessly integrated into Steve Kerr’s system, bringing a combination of experience, versatility, and a winning mentality. His impact has been evident on both ends of the floor, most notably in the win over Toronto, where his defensive stand in the final seconds secured the victory. His ability to facilitate plays, score in clutch moments, and lock down key opponents has been a game-changer for Golden State.
Since his arrival, the Warriors have made significant strides on offense and defense. Butler has helped elevate the play of young talents like Jonathan Kuminga and Quinten Post, adding much-needed depth to the roster. Additionally, his presence has reinforced the defensive identity led by Draymond Green—a crucial factor in navigating Curry’s absence.
Can Butler take over as the offensive leader?
Without Curry, the Warriors lose their offensive engine and primary playmaker. However, Butler has shown in the past that he can shoulder the scoring burden when necessary. His NBA playoff experience and ability to lead under pressure make him the ideal candidate to step up during this stretch.
While he isn’t the elite three-point shooter that Curry is, Butler contributes in other critical areas—creating opportunities for teammates, attacking the rim with physicality, and providing elite perimeter defense. His presence could be the stabilizing force the Warriors need in their upcoming six-game road trip against tough competition.
