Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry addressed the team’s 135-112 win over the Miami Heat on Monday at Chase Center, which was overshadowed by Jimmy Butler’s right knee injury. “I haven’t talked to him since the game, but you never like to see a situation like that, especially somebody tough as he is, and you’re praying for the best obviously with scans,” Curry said.
Curry described Butler’s impact this season. “He’s reliable. I think he makes his presence felt in pretty much every game. He meets whatever moment it is, whether he needs a score, whether he gets everybody organized defensively, what he does, all his playmaking,” he said.
On the game itself, Curry praised the team’s response after Butler went down. “The way we played down the stretch of the game tonight, BP being aggressive scorer, Buddy coming in, staying ready, knocking down shots, Moses, and then Al off the bench. Like we’re going to have to do it by committee if anybody goes down,” he explained.
Curry also recounted his reaction to seeing Butler on the floor. “It’s something you hadn’t seen before. Usually expect him to get up, even if he can’t finish the game. Just told him to take his time… he was still cracking jokes while he was on the ground, in true Jimmy fashion,” he said.
On handling the team without Butler, Curry said, “We won’t talk about much about Jimmy until we know what’s going on, but again, it’s about how we finish the game tonight. Play with energy, have each other’s backs, no matter who’s out there, take care of the basketball, play aggressive, play with confidence.”
Curry also reflected on his teammate Brandin Podziemski’s performance. “I like Brandin’s aggressiveness… anytime BP’s going out talking, whatever gets that BP out, I love it. He got the best of it tonight,” he said.
Regarding the team’s chemistry, Curry noted the continuity in their approach. “Actually, not at all. We have the same vibe. Nobody likes losing. We have a good bond… that’s the only way you can bounce back and put together a run like this if you’re together,” he added.
Curry briefly commented on his All-Star selection, noting the personal significance. “I love the fact that pretty much every acknowledgement you get at this point is you’re the oldest to do something. I appreciate everybody who voted… and I’m very grateful and going to enjoy the weekend,” he said.
Despite the loss of Butler and absence of Draymond Green, Curry emphasized the team’s ability to stay focused. “It’s a good sign no matter who’s out there that guys stepped up. BP, Buddy, and Al especially were difference makers tonight,” he said.
