Report: Butler's Game 3 availability in jeopardy due to glute contusion
Golden State Warriors wing Jimmy Butler was diagnosed with a deep glute muscle contusion, and his availability for Game 3 against the Houston Rockets is in serious jeopardy, ESPN's Shams Charania reports.
Butler exited Game 2 early after taking a hard fall on his tailbone. An MRI taken Thursday revealed no fractures or structural damage, Charania adds.
The injury will be managed on a constant basis in the lead-up to Game 3, and his status is considered a "true questionable" depending on his response to treatment, a source told The Athletic's Anthony Slater.
The Warriors struggled without Butler as the Rockets tied the first-round series at 1-1 with a 109-94 win Wednesday. Butler recorded three points and two rebounds in eight minutes before leaving.
Jonathan Kuminga saw an expanded role with Butler out after not cracking the rotation in the Warriors' play-in contest and Game 1.
Butler recorded 25 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and five steals in the Warriors' series-opening victory.
The 35-year-old's arrival in Golden State propelled the Warriors to success, as they went 23-8 following his arrival in early February.
Game 3 will take place at Chase Center on Saturday.