SAN FRANCISCO -- In a thrilling Game 4 matchup, the Golden State Warriors edged out the Houston Rockets with a nail-biting score of 109-106, pushing them to the brink of advancing to the Western Conference semifinals. The pivotal performance came from Jimmy Butler, who, despite suffering from a pelvic and deep gluteal muscle contusion, managed to score 14 of his total 27 points in a high-stakes fourth quarter. Butler's resilient return from a one-game absence, following a painful fall during Game 2, showcased his determination and commitment to his team.

The first three quarters proved challenging for Butler, as Draymond Green observed that he seemed unable to move effectively due to his injury. However, in the tense final moments of the game, Butler found his rhythm, contributing crucial plays that turned the tide for the Warriors. Green lauded his teammate's ability to rise to the occasion despite his physical limitations, stating, He played through the injury. Was beautiful. But what his presence does for this team is humongous.

In the fourth quarter, Butler not only demonstrated his scoring prowess but also made a significant defensive contribution by securing a critical rebound from three Rockets players. This play came at a crucial time when the Warriors were clinging to a narrow lead. Green, who had faced foul troubles earlier in the game, emphasized how vital Butlers presence was, particularly during the final moments when the game was on the line.

The game had its share of tense moments, especially when the Warriors found themselves trailing by four points with just over four minutes remaining. Fred VanVleet, known for his sharpshooting, had just hit one of his eight three-pointers, putting pressure on the Warriors' defense. Green had picked up his fifth personal foul midway through the third quarter and had to sit out crucial minutes, which allowed Rockets center Alperen Sengun to exploit the Warriors' defensive gaps. Sengun ended the game with an impressive 31 points and 10 rebounds, but his effectiveness waned in the final stretch, particularly when matched up against Green.

With just 6.4 seconds left in the game, the Warriors faced a critical defensive stand. They were clinging to a one-point lead when Sengun attempted to attack Green in the paint. However, Green executed a game-saving defensive maneuver, blocking Senguns shot, which Butler promptly rebounded, sealing the victory for Golden State.

Butlers performance was further highlighted by his clutch free throws late in the game. After drawing a foul from Dillon Brooks, Butler stepped up to hit three pivotal free throws, breaking a 104-104 tie. He later solidified the win by sinking two more free throws with only four seconds left on the clock. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr noted the extraordinary circumstances of the playoffs, remarking, If this were the regular season, Butler would probably miss another week or two. But its the playoffs. Hes Jimmy Butler, so this is what he does.

After the game, Butler candidly acknowledged the pain he was experiencing, stating, A lot of pain. However, he was fueled by the competitive atmosphere and the support from his teammates. He described how his body began to respond positively as the game progressed, stating, You start to warm up, you gain confidence... Then good things happen.

The competitive spirit between Butler and Brooks was palpable, and although Butler claimed he wasn't having fun, he acknowledged the intensity of their rivalry. I dont like Dillon Brooks. Were never having fun, he declared, emphasizing the fierce competitive nature that drives both players on the court.

As the final buzzer sounded, a wave of relief and joy washed over the Warriors. Butler and Green celebrated their hard-fought victory with exuberant shouts, while Stephen Curry, who had a quieter night with only 17 points after his explosive 36-point Game 3 performance, joined in the celebrations with his teammates.

With the series now leaning in their favor, the Warriors look ahead to Game 5, scheduled to take place in Houston. Kerr acknowledged the challenges of closing out a series, especially against a formidable opponent like the Rockets, who finished the regular season with an impressive 52 wins and hold the second seed in the playoffs. Theyre always the hardest ones, Kerr stated. Every team thats in the playoffs has a lot of pride. We have a long way to go, and we know Game 5 will be the toughest one yet.