Stephen Curry had no hesitation in praising Jimmy Butler after the Warriors’ recent win over the Houston Rockets. Butler showcased his well-known “Playoff Jimmy” persona, finishing the game with 25 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals, leading Golden State to a 95-85 victory. His influence on the team goes beyond just stats—it’s the confidence and calm he brings to the floor that stands out.
Draymond Green, during his postgame press conference, also acknowledged Butler’s impact. Despite expectations of tension between two strong personalities like Green and Butler, the reality was quite the opposite. Green recognized Butler not as competition but as a key contributor, particularly for how he steadies the offense. He cited a specific play where Butler calmly hit a shot over Alperen Şengün, explaining that such moments define Butler’s presence on the team. Green emphasized the importance of getting Butler the ball more often to maintain that level of control and poise on offense.
Head coach Steve Kerr shared similar sentiments. While there were no negative rumors about Kerr opposing Butler’s addition to the team, the coach went out of his way to praise the veteran’s influence. Kerr highlighted Butler’s calm demeanor, confidence, and constant belief in victory. According to Kerr, Butler doesn’t just contribute through scoring—he brings a presence and leadership that helps stabilize the team in tense moments.
Defensively, the Warriors improved noticeably after acquiring Butler. As noted by CBS Sports reporter Brad Botkin, the team’s defensive intensity rose, along with pressure in the paint and more trips to the free-throw line. Butler’s averages with Golden State—17.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists—helped alleviate pressure from the younger players like Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga, giving Curry consistent support.
Heading deeper into the postseason, Butler’s presence is being viewed as a major factor in the team’s success. His blend of defense, clutch scoring, and leadership has been praised by both teammates and coaches alike. Yet, when Butler himself was asked about who he believed would carry the team to a championship, he quickly named Stephen Curry.
Butler used a “Batman” metaphor to describe Curry’s ability to show up in crucial moments—often unexpectedly—and deliver incredible performances. He stressed that Curry would be the reason the team wins a title and emphasized how important it is to protect and support him throughout the journey.
Interestingly, Curry was initially hesitant about acquiring a veteran like Butler, fearing that the team might sacrifice its future by trading away young talent. He wanted to avoid what he referred to as “desperate trades.” Despite those concerns, Butler is now part of the Warriors and fully committed to helping them chase a fifth championship ring—one that would place him alongside legends like Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, and his own coach, Steve Kerr.
As the postseason progresses, all eyes are on the growing chemistry between Butler and the Warriors, and whether it will be the formula that brings another title back to Golden State.