Jimmy Butler Injured as Warriors Fall to Rockets in Game 2

Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler suffered a pelvis contusion after a hard fall late in the first quarter of Game 2 against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday. The injury forced Butler out of the game after just eight minutes of play, and he is scheduled to undergo an MRI in San Francisco on Thursday.

The loss of Butler proved to be a significant setback for the Warriors, who fell 109-94, allowing Houston to even the playoff series at 1-1.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed concern after the game. “Obviously feel terrible for Jimmy. Hopefully he’s OK. We’ll see,” he said.

The incident occurred with just under three minutes left in the first quarter, when Butler went up for a rebound and was undercut by Rockets guard Amen Thompson. Butler landed hard on his tailbone and was visibly in pain. He briefly continued to play but exited the game soon after, moving gingerly as he headed to the locker room.

Jonathan Kuminga, who had been out of the regular rotation, stepped in and logged 26 minutes, contributing 11 points. When asked if Kuminga might start Game 3, Kerr responded, “If Jimmy’s out, we have to rethink everything—rotations, who starts, and the best combinations.”

Despite the injury, teammate Draymond Green shared a hopeful update. “Jimmy’s only going to tell you he feels good,” Green said. “He’s given me zero reasons to not believe him.”

Butler has played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ turnaround since joining the team in February, posting standout performances in the play-in and Game 1. His presence has relieved the scoring pressure on Stephen Curry and improved team defense, helping elevate Golden State to title contention.

The Warriors return to San Francisco for Game 3 at Chase Center on Saturday night, but Butler’s availability remains uncertain. They’ll also monitor guard Brandin Podziemski, who was limited to 14 minutes in Game 2 due to illness.

Coach Kerr emphasized the need to adapt. “Hopefully Jimmy will be able to play,” he said. “But if not, then we’ve got to go through our options and put together a plan.”