Did Draymond Strike Again? Jimmy Butler Injury Sparks Controversy in Warriors-Rockets Showdown

By Kristopher Jackson

April 24, 2025

When it comes to NBA villains, few names raise eyebrows like Draymond Green. From groin kicks and face slaps to stomps and suspensions, his highlight reel of infractions is well-documented. Most infamously, in 2022, Green punched and knocked out then-teammate Jordan Poole during a Warriors practice—an incident that still casts a shadow over his reputation today.

So when Jimmy Butler exited last night’s game after a nasty fall near the paint, NBA fans were quick to point fingers: Was Draymond involved?

The reality? Not exactly.

In the first quarter of the Warriors’ 109–94 loss to the Houston Rockets, Green was boxing out rookie Amen Thompson. Known for his own physical style, Thompson fought hard for positioning. Green, showing veteran savvy, let Thompson's momentum carry forward—leading him to stumble directly into Jimmy Butler, who was airborne at the time. The collision sent Butler crashing to the floor, where he landed hard on his hip.

Butler was ruled out after just 8 minutes, later diagnosed with a pelvic contusion—a serious injury that could have major playoff implications.

While it wasn’t a dirty play by definition, the timing couldn’t be worse for Golden State. Steph Curry suffered a similar injury earlier this season and missed eight days, sidelined for two games against Miami and Atlanta. Even if Butler suits up, the injury could limit him significantly.

What adds even more heat to the situation is a bold statement Draymond made just a few months ago. On February 16th, following the Warriors’ strong start with Butler in the lineup (3 wins in their first 4 games together), Green said on The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis:

“We’re gonna win the title this year. Point blank.”

Now, with Butler sidelined and playoff hopes shaking, that prediction feels far more fragile.

So no—Draymond didn’t strike again.But somehow, his presence is still right in the middle of the chaos.

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Kristopher Jackson is a sports and music writer with a passion for storytelling through culture, competition, and rhythm. Follow him on Spotify: KJ King of Hearts on Spotify.