NBA Recap: Warriors Edge Rockets 109-106, Take 3-1 Lead

Jimmy Butler scores 27 points in return from injury, leading Golden State Warriors to 109-106 win over Houston Rockets, taking 3-1 series lead.

The Golden State Warriors edged out the Houston Rockets 109-106, moving one win away from taking the series.

Jimmy Butler made a spectacular return from injury, scoring 27 points to lead Golden State to a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. Butler had missed Game 3 due to a pelvic contusion sustained in a contentious incident in Game 2.

The intense matchup featured several physical altercations, with tensions flaring throughout. Despite Stephen Curry's relatively quiet night (17 points), Brandin Podziemski shone, hitting 6 of 11 three-pointers for 26 points.

Houston initially led by seven points early in the second half but saw their advantage eroded after Golden State went on an 18-1 run, taking control of the game.

DUB. pic.twitter.com/PUzmG7ornF

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 29, 2025

Despite Houston regaining the lead late in the fourth quarter, Golden State rallied, with Jimmy Butler's five crucial free throws sealing the win.

Golden State coach Steve Kerr praised Butler's performance, saying, “Jimmy was just amazing.” Kerr revealed that Butler played through pelvic pain throughout the game, underscoring the star's determination.

🗣️🗣️🗣️ pic.twitter.com/SIM4zoRlzq

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 29, 2025

Steve Kerr noted that while Butler's injury would typically sideline him for weeks during the regular season, “it's the playoffs and he's Jimmy Butler.”

Butler's trade to Golden State in February revitalized the team's season. “I would die for these guys,” Butler said on TNT. “I got my joy back. I always say that we got the most confident guys. Anybody can put the ball in the basket, but more than anything we're locking in defensively and when we limit our turnovers we're hard to beat.”