Stephen Curry Shines as Warriors Take Game 3

Stephen Curry found his rhythm just when his team needed him most. After a slow start, Curry exploded for 36 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds, leading the Golden State Warriors to a 104-93 victory over the Houston Rockets. This win gave the Warriors a 2-1 lead in their first-round playoff series, despite missing Jimmy Butler, who was sidelined with a pelvic injury. Curry’s performance demonstrated his knack for delivering in clutch moments, earning him 4,053 career playoff points, surpassing Tony Parker on the all-time list.

Warriors Overcome Rockets’ Efforts to Stop Curry

Houston threw everything they could at Curry, but the reigning NBA Finals MVP proved too much. After struggling with his shot early on—missing all three of his 3-point attempts in the first quarter—Curry found his groove in the second period. With 13 points in the second quarter alone, he helped the Warriors cut a 13-point deficit down to just three by halftime. Meanwhile, Golden State’s bench also stepped up, with Buddy Hield scoring 17 points, including five 3-pointers, and Gary Payton II scoring 11 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter to seal the win.

Injury Concerns Loom Over Warriors’ Playoff Run

The biggest question moving forward is whether Jimmy Butler can recover in time for Game 4. Butler, who plays a pivotal role for the Warriors, sustained a pelvic injury and deep gluteal muscle contusion in Game 2. While his absence was felt, Curry and his teammates rose to the occasion. As Butler cheered from the sidelines in a full-length fur coat, it was clear that his presence, even off the court, meant a lot to his team.

As the Warriors prepare for the next game, all eyes will be on Butler’s recovery and whether Houston can find a way to contain Curry. Game 4 will be a crucial matchup at the Chase Center on Monday night.