The Golden State Warriors edged the Houston Rockets 104-93 in Game 3 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series, thanks largely to Stephen Curry’s exceptional performance. Without injured Jimmy Butler, the Warriors’ lineup was altered, but Curry rose to the occasion with 36 points, including a crucial 9-point fourth-quarter surge that sealed the win.
With Houston double-teaming Curry on 27 plays, the Warriors averaged just 1.22 points per play, according to ESPN Research. However, Curry’s incredible conditioning and ability to find his rhythm allowed him to excel despite the defensive pressure. He hit 9 of 13 shots in the second and third quarters and only turned over twice against that kind of pressure.
Curry received support from Buddy Hield, who scored 17 points including five 3-pointers, and Gary Payton II, who came off the bench to score 16 points, including a thrilling reverse dunk. The Warriors’ win puts them in a 2-1 lead in the series, and Curry hopes to have Butler back on Monday.
Coach Steve Kerr praised Curry’s performance, saying he is “one of the greatest players of all time” who consistently rises to the challenge despite adversity. Jimmy Butler expressed admiration for Curry, posting an Instagram picture with a Batman and Robin theme, further solidifying their chemistry as teammates.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44879654/stephen-curry-warriors-step-jimmy-butler-game-3