Jimmy Butler’s Incredible Performance Powers Warriors Past Pelicans Without Curry

Jimmy Butler’s Leadership Propels Warriors Past Pelicans Without Stephen Curry

Jimmy Butler delivered a standout performance in the Golden State Warriors’ 104-96 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday. With Stephen Curry sidelined, Butler stepped up as the primary playmaker, scoring 24 points while dishing out 10 assists and grabbing eight rebounds in 37 minutes.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr praised Butler’s impact, highlighting that the team ran most of their offense through him. “Fourteen free throws and 10 assists. We ran everything through him and he delivered. But that’s to be expected. He’s a superstar for a reason,” Kerr said.

Butler not only scored consistently but also made timely baskets late in the third quarter and in the final minute to seal the win. His leadership helped lift a Warriors squad that otherwise struggled, with valuable contributions also coming from Gary Payton II, who scored 19 points and posted a career-high 11 rebounds.

Draymond Green emphasized Butler’s increased aggressiveness in the absence of Curry. “When Steph’s not out there, we definitely need him to be more aggressive, and he was tonight,” Green said. The Warriors adjusted their game plan by calling more structured plays and moving the ball faster, relying on Butler to control the tempo.

Kerr compared Butler’s approach to that of former teammate Andre Iguodala, noting Butler’s preference for making the right basketball play over forcing shots. However, with Curry out, Butler embraced the necessity to attack and take over offensively. “There are times, and tonight was one of them, where we just need him to take over and look to score,” Kerr explained.

Despite a hard fall during the game, Butler remained in the contest and looked optimistic about returning for the Warriors’ upcoming clash against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He expressed confidence in his team’s potential, stating, “I think we got a special team. So let’s go out there and show that we can do something special come Tuesday.”

Butler’s ability to balance playmaking with scoring makes him vital to the Warriors’ success while Curry is sidelined. His performance against the Pelicans sets the tone for the challenging road ahead on the East Coast and the crucial matchup against the Thunder.