The Golden State Warriors defeated the Houston Rockets in Game 1 95-85. Golden State Warriors star players Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry led the way to the win. Can Butler maintain his performance over the remainder of the series?
Jimmy Butler Shines In GSW Postseason Debut
Butler played nearly the entire game, recording 42 minutes. His performance was felt all around with his 25 points (10-19), 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals. Butler has averaged 29.0 points per game in his last 5 contests.
Curry also had a massive game for the Warriors with 31 points (5-of-9 from three) and 6 assists. Curry struggled to get it going in the first half but finished with his fourth straight game of 30+ points.
Alperen Sengun had a strong postseason debut last night as well. Posting 26 points and 9 rebounds to go along with 3 steals. Sengun led the Rockets in scoring. It was the only good thing to come out of this contest for Houston.
The Warriors were able to outlast and outperform the Rockets in what seemed to be both teams’ having an underwhelming performance. The Rockets only mustered 85 points, 34 of which came in the first half. The only bright spots were the two-headed dragon on the Warriors.
Butler’s performance is a great sign for this Golden State team. They haven’t been able to pair Curry with a star since Kevin Durant’s tenure with the team. The Warriors are 23-7 with Butler in the lineup, including last night’s win against the Rockets. The Warriors entered this series as the favorite to win, sitting now at -360, and have the fourth-best odds of winning the NBA Finals at +1400.
Final Thoughts
Butler has simply rejuvenated this Warriors team. While they still competed in the NBA Play-In Tournament, there was a growing doubt that Golden State would even get to this point. He is the type of player any team wants.
He has looked magnificent in his tenure with the team and is bringing a level of potent scoring and facilitating the Warriors have been lacking for consecutive years. Could he finally get that championship he’s come so close to achieving? It’s a tough and extensive journey from here, but if there is any one player who has proved he can go down that road successfully, it’s Jimmy Butler.
