After dropping 31 in game 1, Stephen Curry shuts Down Charles Barkley's attempt to downplay Jimmy Butler's impact

Stephen Curry is known for recognizing the talent of his teammates, and he definitely did that for Jimmy Butler . After the Golden State Warriors triumphed over the Houston Rockets 95-85 in Game 1, Curry had an impressive game with 31 points. But it was his defense of Butler after the game that truly made waves.

Stephen Curry's post game defense shows Jimmy Butler's integral role in Warriors' successThe Golden State Warriors kicked off their playoff series with a solid 95-85 win over the Houston Rockets. Stephen Curry was the standout player, racking up 31 points and sinking five three-pointers, highlighting his scoring skills. But it was his postgame comments that really made an impact. TNT analyst Charles Barkley brought up Jimmy Butler, saying, "a heck of a player," Curry interjected, emphasizing Butler's significance, "Jimmy's nice. Don't get that twisted."

In Game 1, Jimmy Butler proved just how versatile he is. He scored 25 points on 10-of-19 shooting, collected seven rebounds, provided six assists, and made five steals. His defensive grit and offensive skills played a key role in the Warriors' success, creating a balanced approach that complemented Curry's scoring efforts.

JIMMY BUTLER TONIGHT:

25 POINTS
7 REBOUNDS
6 ASSISTS
5 STEALS
52% FG
42 MINUTES pic.twitter.com/pNKUlqXBBk

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 21, 2025

This isn’t the first time when Curry defended Butler, when Warriors acquired him in February 2025, people were skeptical about him with Warriors because his departure with Miami Heat was quite controversial. At that time, Curry came forward and said, “I know there was a lot of drama down there. Who really knows what the story is. We expect to have a motivated, committed Jimmy.”

Steph Curry on Jimmy Butler: “I know there was a lot of drama down there (in Miami). Who really knows what the story is. We expect to have a motivated, committed Jimmy.”

Curry text Butler at halftime tonight to welcome him. Butler text a “pleasant” message back. pic.twitter.com/w9deX8Ohdg

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 6, 2025

The Warriors signed Butler on February 8th then started a remarkable transformation in team performance. The team accumulated 13 wins along with only two defeats after their initial match while Curry's point scoring numbers increased to 29.9 per match. Curry's scoring requirements have decreased since Butler joined the team because the new addition strengthens the team's offensive balance. The impact of Butler on the team caught the attention of Charles Barkley who recognized it fully, "He gave them new life. Butler has given these guys a lot of juice, and one of the most underrated things he does? He gets to the free-throw line. They're not living by jump shots anymore."

Chuck: "He's not as great as you"

Steph: "Jimmy's nice. Don't get that twisted" 😂 pic.twitter.com/VRKijw0l0a

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) April 21, 2025

Even though Barkley had complimented Butler earlier, his comments after the game seemed to downplay Butler's role. Curry quickly jumped in to highlight just how crucial Butler is to the team's achievements. Their teamwork has not only breathed new life into the Warriors' season but also made them serious playoff contenders.

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Stephen Curry's prompt response to Charles Barkley's comment shows just how much he values Jimmy Butler's role. As the Warriors advance in the playoffs, the synergy between Curry and Butler will be vital. Their joint efforts reflect the true spirit of teamwork and recognition, both of which are necessary for championship dreams.