SAN FRANCISCO — Stephen Curry proved why he’s a playoff legend once again. With Jimmy Butler sidelined due to injury, Curry stepped up in a major way, scoring 36 points along with nine assists and seven rebounds to guide the Golden State Warriors to a 104-93 win over the Houston Rockets on Saturday night. The Warriors now lead the first-round playoff series 2-1.
Golden State’s head coach, Steve Kerr, praised Curry’s resilience:
“To play 41 minutes against that kind of defense, have a slow start, find his rhythm, hit big shots, and only commit two turnovers — it was brilliant,” Kerr said.
Off the bench, Buddy Hield added crucial support with 17 points and five 3-pointers. Gary Payton II also made a significant impact, scoring 11 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter. 
“Seeing everyone step up without Jimmy was huge,” said Draymond Green.
Jimmy Butler’s Status Remains Uncertain
Butler missed the game after suffering a pelvic injury and deep gluteal muscle contusion in Game 2. His absence was felt, but the Warriors remained focused.
“You’ve got one task,” Curry emphasized. “Hopefully Jimmy is back next game. But if not, we believe we can still win tough, physical playoff games. Our goal is to win 14 more, and we need Jimmy for that.”
Game 4 of this best-of-seven series is set for Monday night at Chase Center. All eyes will be on Butler’s recovery and potential return.
Rockets’ Early Spark Fades
Houston started strong, led by Fred VanVleet, who scored the team’s first nine points and finished with 17. Alperen Sengun added a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds.
Despite their fast start, the Rockets struggled to maintain momentum. The Warriors adjusted their spacing and defensive pressure, allowing Curry to find his rhythm after a slow first quarter.
By halftime, thanks to a crucial 13-point second quarter from Curry, Golden State had closed a 13-point deficit to trail by only three, 49-46.
“The way we closed the second quarter was the key to the game,” Kerr noted.
Dillon Brooks’ Tough Night
Dillon Brooks fouled Curry just 11 seconds into the game and was in foul trouble early, picking up his second foul midway through the first quarter. He finished the game by fouling out with 3:47 left, much to the delight of the Warriors’ fans, who booed Brooks and other Rockets players during pregame introductions.
Adding to the drama, Brooks had defended Amen Thompson’s foul on Butler in Game 2 and had called Draymond Green a “dirty” player, fueling tension between the teams.
Conclusion
Stephen Curry’s playoff brilliance powered the Warriors to a critical Game 3 victory. With key contributions from Buddy Hield and Gary Payton II, and despite missing Jimmy Butler, Golden State showed they are still a championship contender. As the series continues, the Warriors will look to carry this momentum forward — ideally with Butler back in the lineup.
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