HOUSTON, TEXAS – APRIL 23: Jimmy Butler III #10 of the Golden State Warriors is fouled by Amen … More
The Golden State Warriors’ playoff hopes were dealt a blow on Wednesday night as Jimmy Butler suffered a pelvic contusion following a hard foul by Amen Thompson during the first quarter of the game against the Houston Rockets. Butler was unable to continue playing in the Warriors’ 109-94 loss.
Coach Steve Kerr expressed uncertainty regarding Butler’s availability for Game 3 on Saturday, as the star player is set to undergo an MRI exam on Thursday.
“Hopefully Jimmy will be able to play, but if not we’ve gotta go through our options and put together a plan,” Kerr told reporters.
According to ESPN, the Warriors have a .481 winning percentage without Butler in the lineup.
Butler sustained the injury when Thompson inadvertently collided with his legs while both players were going for a rebound. Although both players fell to the court, Butler remained down for a longer period before being assisted to shoot free throws. After making 1 of 2 shots, Butler was immediately taken out of the game and headed to the locker room.
Kerr stated that he believed Thompson did not intend to harm Butler, describing the incident as “just one of those plays.”
Butler, who had contributed three points and two rebounds before his injury, had an impressive performance in Game 1 with 25 points, seven rebounds, and six assists in Golden State’s victory.
“Jimmy always says he’s going to be fine,” Kerr mentioned. “But we have to wait to see with the MRI.”
Additionally, Golden State’s Brandin Podziemski, who had been sidelined in the first half due to a stomach ailment, returned to play in the third quarter after receiving medical treatment. Kerr explained that Podziemski had experienced stomach issues from something he ate and had to receive an IV at halftime.
(The AP contributed reporting)
