Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler suffered a pelvic contusion during the team’s first-round playoff game against the Houston Rockets, casting uncertainty over his availability for the remainder of the series.
The injury occurred in the first quarter of Game 2 on Thursday at Houston’s Toyota Center, following a collision with Rockets guard Amen Thompson. Butler briefly returned to his feet before exiting to the locker room. He did not reappear for the remainder of the game.
Preliminary X-rays conducted at the venue showed no major damage, but an MRI has been scheduled to assess the full extent of the injury.
“Jimmy always says he’s going to be fine,” Warriors head coach Steve Kerr told reporters post-game. “But we have to wait and see with the MRI.”
Kerr clarified that the incident did not appear to involve any foul play.
“We didn’t think there was anything wrong with the play,” he said. “It was just one of those plays.”
Butler was on the court for 8 minutes, scoring 3 points before being substituted due to the extent of the injury.
Golden State, without Butler, fell 109-94 to the Rockets. Despite Stephen Curry’s 20 points, nine assists and five rebounds, the Warriors were unable to mount a comeback.
Looking ahead to Game 3 on Sunday, Kerr remained cautious about Butler’s return.
“Hopefully, Jimmy will be able to play, but if not, we’ll have to explore our options and come up with a plan,” he said.
With the series now tied at 1-1, both teams will look to gain the upper hand in a pivotal third game.
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