Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr didn’t hold back in his praise for Jimmy Butler following the team’s gritty 95-85 victory over the Houston Rockets in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series.
Butler, who joined the Warriors in a midseason trade from the Miami Heat, showcased his all-around brilliance, earning high praise from Kerr and solidifying his role as a key piece in Golden State’s championship aspirations.
In his playoff debut with the Warriors, Butler delivered a masterclass in versatility and poise. He finished the game with 25 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and five steals, becoming the first player since Allen Iverson to record a 25/5/5/5 stat line in a playoff game. Butler’s impact was felt on both ends of the court, as he made crucial plays down the stretch to seal the victory.
One of the defining moments came with 1:03 left in the game, when Butler hit a turning 19-foot stepback jumper over Rockets big man Alperen Sengun, effectively putting the game out of reach. Kerr highlighted Butler’s ability to calm the team and make winning plays:
“Jimmy is, he’s one of the best players in the league, and that’s what the best players in the league do. It’s not just about scoring or stats. It’s about settling the game down, having the presence and the nature to compete and win games like this.”
“Jimmy is one of the best players in the league.”
Steve Kerr had HIGH praise for Jimmy Butler III after his all-around performance in Golden State’s Game 1 win
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Since joining the Warriors, Butler has seamlessly integrated into the team’s system, providing a counterbalance to Stephen Curry’s explosive scoring. His methodical style and defensive tenacity have added a new dimension to Golden State’s approach, allowing them to adapt to different game scenarios. Draymond Green praised Butler’s versatility, noting that his presence enables the Warriors to experiment with defensive matchups and schemes.
Butler’s leadership and confidence have also been instrumental in stabilizing the team during high-pressure moments.
“He calms things down. He’s very confident, he’s very poised. He always believes we’re going to win,” Kerr said.
With Game 2 set for Wednesday night at the Toyota Center, the Warriors will look to build on their momentum and take a commanding 2-0 series lead. Butler’s ability to rise to the occasion and deliver in clutch moments will be crucial as Golden State navigates a physical and defensive-minded Rockets team.
