Buddy Hield Shines Bright as Warriors Outlast Rockets in Thriller Without Butler
In a night where the Golden State Warriors faced the daunting task of competing without their star forward Jimmy Butler, it was Buddy Hield who rose to the occasion. Delivering one of his finest performances in a Warriors jersey, Hield powered Golden State to a hard-fought victory over the Houston Rockets, 114-107.
From the opening tip, it was clear the Warriors would need someone to fill the void left by Butler’s absence. Hield answered the call with poise, energy, and a relentless scoring touch. He poured in 28 points, knocking down six three-pointers and providing the offensive spark the Warriors desperately needed.
“It’s about staying ready,” Hield said postgame. “Jimmy is our leader, but when he’s not out there, we all have to step up. Tonight was my turn, and I just wanted to do whatever it took to help us get the win.”
The Rockets pushed the Warriors to the brink, led by Jalen Green’s dynamic play and Alperen Şengün’s presence in the paint. But every time Houston threatened to seize control, Hield answered — whether with a timely three, a crafty drive to the basket, or crucial free throws in the closing minutes.
Stephen Curry, who finished with 22 points and 7 assists, praised Hield’s effort: “Buddy was incredible tonight. He’s been putting in the work, and you could see the confidence. We needed every bit of it.”
Golden State’s defense also tightened when it mattered most, forcing key turnovers down the stretch and holding the Rockets to just 18 points in the final quarter. Draymond Green anchored the defense with his usual fire, adding 10 rebounds and two blocks.
While Butler’s absence was felt, Hield’s explosion served as a reminder of the Warriors’ depth and resilience — qualities that could prove vital as the postseason approaches.
With this win, Golden State strengthens their playoff positioning, while Houston, despite a spirited effort, continues to fight for a play-in spot.
As for Hield, he made a loud and clear statement: when opportunity knocks, he’s ready to answer — and then some.
