By Sunday 
The Golden State Warriors are riding high after a huge Game 3 win over the Houston Rockets — and the best news? Jimmy Butler might be back just in time to help them keep the momentum rolling.
Butler’s Big Effort to Return
Game 3 was impressive enough on its own. The Warriors took a 2-1 series lead without their six-time All-Star on the court. Butler was sidelined with a pelvic contusion suffered during Game 2, and Golden State still managed to pull off a major win.
Now, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Butler is doing everything he can to be back for Monday night’s Game 4.
“Jimmy Butler is doing everything possible to try to play tonight in Game 4,” Charania shared. “I’m told the Warriors and Jimmy Butler are expecting him to make his return tonight in Game 4.”
It’s the kind of determination that has made Butler a fan favorite wherever he’s played — and it could be exactly the boost the Warriors need to tighten their grip on this series.
A Huge Impact Player
Since being traded from the Miami Heat, Butler has been pure magic alongside Steph Curry. Together, they’ve put up an eye-popping 22-5 record when sharing the floor. In Game 1 alone, Butler dropped 25 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals, shooting 10-for-19 from the field.
No question — the Warriors are better with him in the lineup. His presence on both ends of the court is a game-changer.
Grateful Even from the Sidelines
Even while sidelined, Butler kept the energy high. After the Game 3 win, he took to Instagram to shout out the squad, posting:
“Thanks Batman and team. Excluding Buddy.”
Classic Butler — supportive, locked in, and just a little bit savage.
Game 4: All Eyes on the Warriors
If Butler does suit up tonight, Golden State’s odds of taking a commanding 3-1 series lead grow even stronger. The Rockets have shown fight, but a fully loaded Warriors team is a whole different beast.
Tip-off for Game 4 is set for 10:00 p.m. EST. Buckle up — it’s going to be a good one.