May 6, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler (10) conducts an interview after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves during game one of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

Steve Kerr Addresses Critical Jimmy Butler Decision for Warriors-Wolves Game 4

Originally posted on Golden State Warriors on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated May 11, 2025 7:05 PM ET

Without Steph Curry available, the Golden State Warriors need all the help that they can get from their superstar forward, Jimmy Butler.

On Saturday night in Game 3, played in 43 minutes and put up 33 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists on 46/50/78 shooting from the field. Unfortunately, it looks like that may not be enough from Butler in order for the Warriors to win.

Jimmy Butler is ready to put on his big boy pants in Game 4 pic.twitter.com/YUIUcUatMB
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) May 11, 2025

According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, Steve Kerr revealed that Butler actually wants to play 48 minutes, but the team has been managing which spots to get the forward out there.

Via @anthonyVslater: "Steve Kerr said Warriors will continue to balance need to have Jimmy Butler out there basically every minute while trying to spot him necessary rest. Butler played 43 in Game 3 and Kerr said he’s antsy every second he’s on bench: “He wants 48.”"

Steve Kerr said Warriors will continue to balance need to have Jimmy Butler out there basically every minute while trying to spot him necessary rest. Butler played 43 in Game 3 and Kerr said he’s antsy every second he’s on bench: “He wants 48.”
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) May 11, 2025

Without sounding too dramatic, the Golden State Warriors essentially have their season on the line in Game 6. The team will likely be without Steph Curry for Game 4, and he likely won't return until Game 6. The biggest key for the Warriors will be extending the series as long as possible until Curry returns.

If Golden State drops down to a 3-1 deficit without Steph Curry, the series will essentially be over, regardless of how optimistic fans may be.