Sun Apr 27 04:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Curry Leads Warriors to Victory Over Rockets in Game 3, Despite Butler’s Absence

**SAN FRANCISCO –** Stephen Curry exploded for 36 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds, leading the Golden State Warriors to a 104-93 victory over the Houston Rockets in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series. The win gives the Warriors a 2-1 series lead, achieved despite the absence of injured forward Jimmy Butler, who watched from the sidelines in a fur coat.

Curry, who surpassed Tony Parker for 10th place on the NBA’s all-time playoff scoring list, overcame a slow start, finding his rhythm in the second half to propel his team to victory. Coach Steve Kerr praised Curry’s performance, highlighting his ability to overcome Houston’s intense defensive pressure. Buddy Hield added 17 points off the bench, while Gary Payton II contributed 16, including 11 in the fourth quarter.

The Warriors’ bench stepped up significantly in Butler’s absence, with Draymond Green emphasizing the team’s collective effort. Butler suffered a pelvic injury and deep gluteal muscle contusion in Game 2 and his availability for Game 4 remains uncertain. Curry expressed hope for Butler’s return but stated the team’s resolve to win regardless.

Houston’s Fred VanVleet led the Rockets’ scoring with 17 points, while Alperen Sengun added 15 points and 11 rebounds. However, the Rockets struggled to contain Curry’s late-game surge. Dillon Brooks, who had been involved in an earlier controversial incident, fouled out late in the game, much to the delight of the home crowd.

The series shifts to Chase Center for Game 4 on Monday, where the Warriors will await an update on Butler’s condition and hope to extend their lead.

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