The Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets are going head-to-head in the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs. It's an intriguing matchup featuring proven playoff veterans for Golden State and a talented young core for Houston.

The Warriors on Feb. 5 sent a protected 2025 first-round pick and four players — Andrew Wiggins, Dennis Schroder, Kyle Anderson, and Lindy Waters III — to various destinations in the complicated, multi-team deal that brought Butler to the Bay from Miami. Golden State signed Butler to a two-year, $121 million contract extension through 2027.

ESPN's Jay Williams had high praise for Butler following his performance. "He isn't just a star. He's the best technician teammate in the NBA," Williams said. "It's not just about scoring. He orchestrates winning and he impacts the game. In clutch time, he outscored Houston by himself."