After ousting the Houston Rockets, the Golden State Warriors entered the playoffs with much optimism. Jimmy Butler III and Stephen Curry provided the points for the Warriors to get past the Rockets, as they faced the Minnesota Timberwolves next.
However, they had a significant blow in the match.
Curry left the game injured with a hamstring strain and didn’t return. So, the onus was on Butler to score points and take over the offense. They prevailed at the end, courtesy of Draymond Green and Buddy Hield’s points.
In Game 1 of the exciting playoffs round, Butler had a double-double to give them an advantage, and he hopes to get his partner in crime for the next game.
Let’s explore Butler’s performance for the Warriors:
Jimmy Butler III vs. Minnesota Timberwolves: Game 1 Stats
| Minutes | Points | Rebounds | Assists | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 41:16 | 20 | 11 | 8 | 7/20 | 2/8 |
Butler vs. Timberwolves: How Did Butler Perform in Game 1?
With Curry out in the game, Butler started slowly, scoring six points in the first half. He guarded multiple players and played exceptional defense, but couldn’t get it going from the court with his shooting.
He shot 2 out of 7 shots and made just one three-pointer in the first half. However, he focused on the other aspects of play, claiming six rebounds and three assists during those minutes. Likewise, he had two highlight plays, pick-pocketing the Timberwolves players and getting two steals.
In the second half, ‘Playoffs Jimmy’ took center stage. Instead of scoring, he facilitated the role of a playmaker in Curry’s absence and dished out eight assists to finish the game. He also attacked the rim on both sides of the court, claiming 11 crucial rebounds, contributing to the 60 rebounds the Warriors had in the game.
Although an off-shooting night, Butler attacked the rim most times with Rudy Gobert waiting for him inside the paint. Yet, he drew some fouls and went to the charity stripe to shoot 4/6 free throws.
It became an all-action-packed performance from Butler, who will take over the Warriors’ crown in Curry’s absence. He ended the game with 20 points to give the Warriors a priceless lead in the series.
Jimmy Butler III vs. Timberwolves: Head-to-Head Career Stats
Butler has had some brilliant games against the Timberwolves throughout his career. His mid-range shooting hurts the opposition, and his drives to the basket make him a solid player inside the paint.
On April 16, 2021, the forward had 30 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists against his current opponents, the Timberwolves. He had made 12-15 free throws, showcasing his ability from the charity stripe.
Likewise, he caught form in this year’s playoffs. Although he had some injury concerns, Butler averaged 18.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, providing the Warriors valuable points apart from Curry’s productivity. Hence, he’s one of the go-to players for the Warriors right now.
Butler’s Last 10 games vs. the Timberwolves
- February 10, 2023 – 16 pts, 4 rebs, 4 asts
- April 05, 2024 – 22 pts, 3 rebs, 3 asts
- February 13, 2025 – 19 pts, 8 rebs, 4 asts
- April 06, 2025 – 13 pts, 5 rebs, 3 asts
- April 20, 2025 – 25 pts, 7 rebs, 6 asts
- April 23, 2025 – 3 pts, 2 rebs, 0 asts
- April 28, 2025 – 27 pts, 5 rebs, 6 asts
- April 30, 2025 – 8 pts, 5 rebs, 2 asts
- May 02, 2025 – 27 pts, 9 rebs, 8 asts
- May 06, 2025 – 20 pts, 11 rebs, 8 asts
