The Golden State Warriors continued their late-season surge with a thrilling 121-119 comeback victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday night.
After falling into a 27-5 first-quarter hole, the Warriors stormed back behind a vintage 40-point performance from Steph Curry, sealing their third straight win and finishing a five-game road trip with a 4-1 record.
But the biggest story of Golden State‘s turnaround is the arrival of Jimmy Butler. Acquired from the Miami Heat in a blockbuster five-team trade, Butler has helped ignite a midseason revival, with the Warriors now 10-1 since his arrival.
After the game, Curry credited Butler for his renewed energy, emphasizing that the veteran star has provided the team with a crucial boost heading into the season’s final stretch.
Butler’s immediate impact
While Curry led all scorers with 40 points on 60 percent shooting, Butler delivered a strong all-around performance, contributing 25 points, six assists, and three steals while shooting 53.8 percent from the field.
Golden State‘s post-trade resurgence has been undeniable, with the team moving to 35-28 and surging in the Western Conference playoff race.
Since Butler‘s arrival, Curry’s game has reached another level. His scoring average has jumped from 22.9 points per game to 30.4 ppg.
When asked postgame whether his improved performance was due to better health or Butler‘s presence, Curry credited both factors.
“All of it. I think it’s all connected, too,” Curry said. “It starts with being healthy [and] feeling like yourself. The work you put in behind the scenes prepares you to play and feel good night in and night out.
“But Jimmy obviously helps. He helps a lot. It’s led to winning because we have a good balance and a good flow, and his impact on the game is pretty obvious.”
Golden State’s impressive 10-1 record since acquiring Butler is proving that they could be a serious threat in the playoffs. With Curry regaining his MVP-level form and Butler adding grit and experience, the Warriors look like a team no contender will want to face in the postseason.
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