Jimmy Butler emphasized his growth as a player following the Golden State Warriors’ 104-93 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night.
“I think I’ve matured a lot… Whenever I was young in the league, it was always score score score… Now it’s always about my guys. Whatever you all need me to do… It’s only about winning at this point,” Butler said, via 95.7 The Game.
The 35-year-old forward has taken on a leadership role since joining Golden State at the trade deadline. He is averaging 16.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.9 assists in 31.8 minutes per game, with the Warriors going 15-2 in his appearances.
Against Milwaukee, Butler recorded 24 points, eight rebounds, and 10 assists, helping the Warriors secure their 40th win of the season. With the victory, Golden State improved to 40-29 and remained sixth in the Western Conference standings.
The Warriors were without Stephen Curry, who was given a night off for rest. Brandin Podziemski stepped into the starting lineup and contributed 17 points and seven rebounds, while Buddy Hield added 15 points off the bench.
Golden State set the tone early with a 32-point first quarter and held off Milwaukee’s comeback attempts. The Bucks, now 38-30, shot 39.2% from the field and 31.6% from three-point range.
Kyle Kuzma led Milwaukee with 22 points, knocking down five three-pointers. Giannis Antetokounmpo finished with 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, while Damian Lillard and Brook Lopez each scored 16.
Golden State’s defense proved crucial, limiting the Bucks to 17 points in both the second and fourth quarters. After Gary Trent Jr. missed a key three-pointer in the final minutes, Podziemski responded with his third triple of the game to put the contest out of reach.
With the Warriors surging and Butler embracing his role, Golden State continues to push for a strong playoff position in the West.
