Since acquiring Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat, the Golden State Warriors have developed a pattern of sluggish starts, often rallying late to secure victories. However, without Stephen Curry, those comebacks become significantly more difficult—something the team experienced firsthand in their recent loss to the Atlanta Hawks.
With Curry sidelined, the Warriors fell behind by 17 points in the first quarter. Despite a late push, they couldn’t overcome the deficit, ultimately losing 124-115. The loss has tightened the playoff race, with the Los Angeles Clippers and Minnesota Timberwolves now closing in on Golden State.
After the game, Butler didn’t hold back in assessing the team’s effort, calling it “non-existent” until it was too late. He also emphasized how much Curry’s presence impacts the team’s ability to recover from slow starts.
“Like I’ve said time and time again, when you don’t got 30 and you dig yourself a hole like that, it gets very, very, very hard to come back.”
Curry’s impact extends beyond his elite shooting—his presence alone alters defensive schemes, creating opportunities for teammates. Without him, the Warriors are far easier to contain, as was evident in their matchup against Atlanta.
Fortunately, Curry’s injury is not considered serious, and there is optimism that he will return during the current road trip. Meanwhile, the Warriors’ upcoming game will be a must-watch, as Butler makes his return to Kaseya Center for the first time since his trade from Miami. Known for stepping up in big moments, Butler could very well bring out ‘Playoff Jimmy’ early in his return to South Beach.
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