The Warriors edged out the Rockets in a thrilling, physically intense game on Monday night. Returning from a one-game injury absence, Jimmy Butler played the hero with a monster stat line and several clutch plays.<\/p>
The former Chicago Bull star recorded 27 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists on 7-of-12 shooting from the field, and a perfect 12-of-12 from the free throw line — all while clearly dealing with visible pain in his lower back. Butler dominated the fourth quarter, scoring 14 of Golden State’s 27 points in the period to help his team pull away and take a commanding 3-1 lead in the series.<\/p>
Speaking after the game, Butler was all smiles as he praised the joy of playing alongside Stephen Curry and the rest of the Warriors.<\/p>
\n“I’d die for these guys. It’s so much fun! They brought the joy of playing back to me. And more than anything, winning feels so damn good.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>
Reflecting on the tough win against a gritty Rockets team, the Warriors’ No. 10 remained clear-headed about what sets his team apart.<\/p>
\n“We’ve done this all year! (winning) I always say we’ve got the most confident players out there. Anyone on this team can score. But more importantly, we do the work on defense. And when we limit our turnovers, we’re tough to beat.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>
Laser-focused on winning and clearly pleased to have taken down Houston again, the six-time NBA All-Star opened up about his impressive fourth-quarter performance.<\/p>