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Stephen Curry Leads Warriors to Game 3 Victory Without Jimmy Butler

Golden State takes a 2-1 series lead over Houston as Curry scores 36 points and key bench players step up in Butler's absence.

Steph Curry (30) of the Warriors looks to pass as Alperen Sengun (28) of the Rockets leaps up during a game between the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets at Chase Arena on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The game marks the third match of the playoffs.
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Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) works the ball against Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengün (28) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at ChaseCenter in San Francisco, Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Overview

  • Stephen Curry scored 36 points, along with nine assists and seven rebounds, to propel the Warriors to a 104-93 win over the Rockets in Game 3 of the first-round playoff series.
  • Golden State played without Jimmy Butler, sidelined by a pelvic and deep gluteal contusion sustained in Game 2, though he is expected to return for Game 4.
  • Buddy Hield contributed 17 points off the bench, hitting five 3-pointers, while Gary Payton II scored 11 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter during a decisive stretch.
  • Draymond Green's defensive efforts, combined with improved rebounding and contributions from role players, helped the Warriors overcome Houston's physical defense.
  • The Rockets' attempts to double-team Curry created opportunities for other Warriors players, highlighting Curry's ability to adapt and lead under pressure.