The Golden State Warriors played a crucial Game 3 against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Chase Center, winning 104-93 without their star forward Jimmy Butler. Butler was sidelined due to a pelvic contusion and deep glute bruise sustained in Game 2, leaving the Warriors to rely heavily on their two-time MVP, Stephen Curry.
Curry stepped up in a big way, scoring 36 points, dishing out nine assists, and grabbing seven rebounds in 41 minutes of action. His performance was critical, especially with the Rockets focusing their defense on him, employing various tactics to limit his effectiveness. Despite this, Curry managed to shoot 12-for-23 from the field and was particularly effective at the free-throw line, going 7-for-8.
Buddy Hield provided valuable support off the bench, contributing 17 points, including five 3-pointers. Gary Payton II also played a pivotal role, scoring 16 points, with 11 of those coming in the fourth quarter as he helped seal the victory for the Warriors. Draymond Green anchored the defense with three critical stops in the closing moments of the game.
The game started with the Warriors struggling to find their rhythm, shooting only 2-for-13 from beyond the arc in the first quarter. However, Curry found his groove in the second quarter, scoring 13 points and helping the Warriors close the gap after trailing by as much as 13 points earlier in the game. At halftime, the Warriors were down by just three points, 49-46.
As the game progressed, the Warriors made strategic adjustments. Head coach Steve Kerr inserted Jonathan Kuminga and Quinten Post into the starting lineup to add size and energy. This move paid off, as Kuminga and Post provided necessary offensive sparks, helping the Warriors maintain pace with the Rockets.
Despite the absence of Butler, the Warriors' game plan revolved around maximizing Curry's impact. The team focused on getting him the ball in favorable positions and setting screens to create opportunities. Curry's ability to navigate through the Rockets' traps and find open teammates was crucial, especially in the second half.
The fourth quarter saw the Warriors outscore the Rockets 35-22, with Curry leading the charge. He was instrumental in executing plays that led to key baskets, including a pivotal assist to Payton that gave the Warriors a four-point lead with just over four minutes left. The Chase Center crowd erupted as Payton converted a layup and later an uncontested dunk, extending the lead further.
Throughout the game, Curry's determination and skill were on full display. He not only scored but also facilitated plays that kept the Warriors competitive. His ability to draw fouls and convert free throws also played a significant role in the Warriors' success. The Rockets, meanwhile, struggled to find their offensive rhythm, shooting just 39.5% from the field and missing crucial free throws, going 14-for-24.
Houston's Fred VanVleet led his team with 17 points, but the Warriors' defense, spearheaded by Green, effectively limited the impact of other key players. Alperen Sengun added 15 points and 11 rebounds, but it was clear that the Rockets missed Butler's presence on the court.
As the game concluded, tensions flared between the two teams. Following the final buzzer, Green and Jalen Green exchanged words at halfcourt, indicating the competitive nature of the playoff atmosphere. Dillon Brooks of the Rockets fouled out with 3:47 remaining, and the crowd showed their disdain for him, reflecting the rivalry's intensity.
With this victory, the Warriors now lead the best-of-seven series 2-1, setting the stage for a critical Game 4 on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the same venue. The key question moving forward will be whether Butler can recover in time to contribute, as his leadership and skill are invaluable to the Warriors' playoff aspirations.
Curry's performance not only solidified his status as a playoff superstar, but he also surpassed Tony Parker for the 10th most career playoff points in NBA history, now boasting 4,053 points. His ability to step up in crucial moments continues to define his legacy as one of the game's greats.
As the series progresses, the Warriors will need to maintain their momentum and cohesion, especially with Butler's uncertain status. The pressure is on for both teams as they vie for supremacy in this tightly contested playoff series.
