Thu May 01 00:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Warriors Take 3-1 Series Lead Over Rockets as Butler Shines, Green Delivers Clutch Defense

**Oakland, CA** – The Golden State Warriors have taken a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Houston Rockets in their first-round playoff matchup, thanks in large part to a dominant performance from Jimmy Butler and clutch defense from Draymond Green.

Butler, playing through a pelvic contusion suffered in Game 2, exploded for 27 points, 14 of which came in the fourth quarter, leading the Warriors to a 109-106 victory. His performance included three crucial free throws and a game-saving rebound in the final seconds. Coach Steve Kerr lauded Butler’s performance as “just amazing.”

While Butler stole the show offensively, Green anchored the defense, notably shutting down Rockets center Alperen Sengun (31 points) in the final possession. Green, playing with five fouls in the game’s closing minutes, showcased his defensive prowess, forcing a crucial miss from Sengun that sealed the win. His contribution went beyond the box score, which showed six points, eight rebounds, and two assists.

Conversely, the Rockets’ leading scorer from the regular season, Jalen Green, had a nightmarish performance, scoring only eight points on 3-for-8 shooting. He was benched in the fourth quarter, a clear indication of coach Ime Udoka’s lack of confidence in his performance. Green’s struggles, marked by poor body language and a lack of impact beyond scoring, represent a major concern for Houston.

Adding to the Rockets’ woes, they missed 12 free throws and were outscored 18-1 by the Warriors to start the second half. Brandin Podziemski provided crucial support for the Warriors, scoring 26 points, including six three-pointers, effectively neutralizing Houston’s defensive efforts.

Stephen Curry, while deferring to his teammates, played a supporting role, highlighting the Warriors’ newfound depth. This balanced scoring attack and the ability to lean on Butler in crunch time paint a promising picture for Golden State as they move closer to the next round. The Rockets, however, face a critical juncture, needing a significant turnaround to avoid early elimination. The question remains: can Houston respond effectively, and quickly enough to avoid elimination?

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