News Page

Main Content

Warriors' Steve Kerr gives key Jimmy Butler playing time announcement amid Steph Curry injury

The Sporting News's profile
The Sporting News
May 11

Steve Kerr, the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, has acknowledged that he has little choice but to rely heavily on Jimmy Butler, especially with Stephen Curry sidelined due to injury. Butler, known for his resilience and performance during critical games, is eager to play every minute, which aligns with his 'Playoff Jimmy' reputation. Despite a recent 102-97 loss, Butler delivered an impressive performance, contributing 33 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Jonathan Kuminga also played a significant role, scoring 30 points and alleviating concerns about his ability to coexist with Butler on the court. With the Warriors trailing 2-1 in the series and Curry's return uncertain, securing a win in their upcoming home game is crucial to keeping their season alive, with Butler expected to be on the court for nearly the entire game.

Warriors' Steve Kerr gives key Jimmy Butler playing time announcement amid Steph Curry injury

Context:

Steve Kerr, the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, has acknowledged that he has little choice but to rely heavily on Jimmy Butler, especially with Stephen Curry sidelined due to injury. Butler, known for his resilience and performance during critical games, is eager to play every minute, which aligns with his 'Playoff Jimmy' reputation. Despite a recent 102-97 loss, Butler delivered an impressive performance, contributing 33 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Jonathan Kuminga also played a significant role, scoring 30 points and alleviating concerns about his ability to coexist with Butler on the court. With the Warriors trailing 2-1 in the series and Curry's return uncertain, securing a win in their upcoming home game is crucial to keeping their season alive, with Butler expected to be on the court for nearly the entire game.

Dive Deeper:

  • Steve Kerr has expressed that due to Stephen Curry's absence, Jimmy Butler is the primary offensive force for the Golden State Warriors, necessitating his extended playing time.

  • Butler is known for his intense playing style and desire to stay on the court for the entire game, a trait that earned him fame during his tenure with the Miami Heat.

  • In a recent game, despite the Warriors' loss, Butler excelled with 33 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, showcasing his critical role for the team.

  • Jonathan Kuminga's performance was noteworthy as he scored 30 points, helping to mitigate concerns about his and Butler's on-court chemistry.

  • The Warriors are currently down 2-1 in the series, and with Curry's return not expected for at least two more games, winning the upcoming Game 4 at home is vital.

  • Kerr anticipates Butler will play nearly every minute of this pivotal game as the Warriors strive to extend their season.

  • The strategic reliance on Butler underscores the urgency for the Warriors to adapt without Curry and the importance of Butler's contributions in high-stakes situations.

  • Steve Kerr spoke with reporters on Sunday and admitted he pretty much has no choice.

  • The Warriors head coach wants to get Jimmy Butler more rest, but how can he? Stephen Curry is out, and Butler is the main offensive force Golden State has.

  • Kerr quickly clarified that rest isn't Butler's concern.

  • "He wants 48," Kerr told reporters of Butler's desire to play every minute of the game.

  • That's one of the things that made Butler famous as "Playoff Jimmy" during his time with the Heat. He refused to come off the floor and found a way to will his team to victories.

  • MORE: Warriors' Stephen Curry in need of series-changing news

  • Butler was great on Saturday night despite a 102-97 loss. He finished with 33 points, seven rebounds and seven assists.

  • The Warriors got a huge boost from the revitalized Jonathan Kuminga, who scored 30.

  • There were concerns that Butler and Kuminga would struggle to coexist on the court, but at least in Game 3, the Warriors couldn't afford to take either guy off the floor.

  • Golden State is now down 2-1, and Curry is probably still two games away, at best.

  • The Warriors have pretty much no choice but to win Game 4 at home on Monday, or their season might end without ever getting Curry back.

  • You can pretty much count on Butler to play almost every minute of the most crucial game of Golden State's season.

  • MORE: Jonathan Kuminga shines amid trade rumors

Latest Sports

Related Stories