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Warriors Game 4: Butler's Return Fuels Victory Bid Against Rockets
The Golden State Warriors welcomed back star forward Jimmy Butler for Game 4 of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets on April 28, 2025. After missing Game 3 due to a pelvic contusion suffered in a scary fall during Game 2, Butler's return injected a much-needed boost into the Warriors' lineup as they aimed to extend their series lead.
Butler's Comeback and Game 4 Intensity
Butler started Game 4, playing significant minutes despite his recent injury. The game was far from smooth, however. Twice in the second quarter, skirmishes erupted, resulting in technical fouls for Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Dillon Brooks, and Tari Eason. A flagrant foul 1 was also assessed to Green. Despite the heated atmosphere and the physicality of the game, Butler’s presence on the court was evident, impacting both the offense and defense. His 13 points, five assists, and three rebounds contributed significantly to the Warriors' effort.
Warriors' Balanced Attack
While Butler's return was pivotal, the Warriors' success relied on a collective team effort. Stephen Curry, despite playing fewer minutes than in Game 3 (where he carried the team with 36 points), still delivered a solid performance. The bench also stepped up, with strong contributions from Brandin Podziemski (21 points), Quentin Post (13 points), and Buddy Hield (12 points). This balanced scoring attack proved crucial in offsetting the Rockets' efforts.
A Close Contest
The game was a nail-biter, with the lead changing hands frequently. The Rockets, led by Alperen Sengun's 21 points and Fred VanVleet's 19, kept the pressure on the Warriors until the final buzzer. Golden State ultimately secured a victory, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting themselves in a strong position to advance to the next round.
Looking Ahead
With Butler back in the fold, the Warriors' chances of a deep playoff run significantly increase. The team’s depth and ability to share the scoring load will be essential as they face the challenge of closing out the series. Game 5 heads back to Houston, where the Rockets will be looking for a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
