Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler exited Game 2 of the Western Conference first-round series against the Houston Rockets after sustaining a pelvic contusion late in the first quarter. The injury occurred when Butler was undercut by Rockets rookie Amen Thompson while contesting a rebound, causing him to land hard on his tailbone. Butler briefly remained in the game, making one of two free throws, but soon left for the locker room and did not return. He is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Thursday to assess the severity of the injury.
Butler’s absence was felt as the Warriors struggled offensively, ultimately losing 109–94, allowing the Rockets to even the series at 1–1. Jalen Green led Houston with 38 points, including eight three-pointers. (Rockets bounce back in Game 2, winning 109-94 over Warriors, NBA roundup: Jimmy Butler III injured as Warriors fall to Rockets)
Since joining the Warriors in February, Butler has been instrumental in the team’s performance, averaging 17.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists over 30 games. His potential absence in Game 3, scheduled for Saturday at Chase Center, poses a significant challenge for Golden State. (Jimmy Butler’s Agent Gives Cryptic Update on Warriors Star’s Injury …)
Head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Butler’s availability, stating, “Jimmy always says he’s going to be fine. We have to wait to see with the MRI.” (Warriors’ Jimmy Butler III exits with pelvic injury, heads for MRI)
The Warriors will look to adjust their strategy and rotations as they prepare for Game 3, aiming to regain momentum in the series.
