Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler lead Warriors over Knicks with 114-102 victory

The Golden State Warriors continued their impressive winning streak with a 114–102 victory over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on March 4, 2025. This victory marks the Warriors’ ninth win in ten games since acquiring Jimmy Butler, further solidifying their dominance in the Western Conference playoff race. Led by Stephen Curry‘s explosive performance, the Warriors overcame an early deficit to secure yet another crucial win.

With standout performances from Curry, Butler, and the supporting cast, the Warriors demonstrated why they remain one of the most formidable teams in the league. Meanwhile, the Knicks struggled without Karl-Anthony Towns, despite Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby‘s valiant efforts. Here’s a breakdown of how Golden State pulled off the win and what it means for both teams moving forward.

First Half: Knicks Dominate Early, Warriors Struggle to Find Rhythm

The game started with the Knicks taking early control, thanks to their high-energy offense and aggressive defense. Jalen Brunson set the tone for New York, scoring 25 points and dishing out seven assists. OG Anunoby was equally impressive, finishing with a game-high 29 points while providing elite perimeter defense.

The Warriors initially struggled to find their groove as the Knicks built a nine-point lead in the second quarter. Mikal Bridges was tasked with guarding Stephen Curry, and in the first half, he successfully limited the Warriors’ star to just eight points. With Golden State’s offense sputtering, it seemed like the Knicks were in a prime position to take control of the game.

But then Stephen Curry happened.

Stephen Curry Takes Over in the Second Half

Despite a slow start, Curry proved why he remains one of the greatest players in NBA history. In the third quarter, he erupted for 14 points, including a series of deep three-pointers that shifted the momentum in Golden State’s favor.

Curry finished the night with an incredible stat line:

• 28 points
• 9 assists
• 7 rebounds
• 2 steals

His ability to adapt and overcome defensive pressure was a key factor in the Warriors’ comeback. After being held to just eight points in the first half, Curry’s adjustments allowed him to torch the Knicks’ defense in the final two quarters.

“I just had to stay patient and take what the defense was giving me,” Curry said postgame. “In the second half, I found my rhythm, and from there, it was about closing out the game.”

Jimmy Butler’s Impact on the Warriors’ Success

Since acquiring Jimmy Butler, the Warriors have gone 9-1, proving that his presence has transformed the team into a legitimate championship contender.

Against the Knicks, Butler contributed in all facets of the game, providing relentless defense, veteran leadership, and crucial offensive plays. His two-way ability has been instrumental in taking some of the scoring burden off Curry, allowing the team to play more balanced basketball.

“Jimmy just makes winning plays, simple as that,” said Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. “His defense, playmaking, and toughness are exactly what we needed to take this team to the next level.”

While Butler’s individual stats may not always pop, his ability to elevate his teammates is what makes him so valuable. Golden State’s defensive intensity and ball movement have drastically improved, and Butler’s presence has been a major factor in their dominant 9-1 stretch.

Knicks’ Struggles Without Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks were dealt a major blow before tipoff as Karl-Anthony Towns was ruled out due to personal reasons. Without their All-Star big man, New York was forced to adjust their game plan, and while Brunson and Anunoby stepped up, they ultimately lacked the firepower to match the Warriors down the stretch.

One of the biggest concerns for New York was Mikal Bridges’ underwhelming performance. Tasked with defending Curry, Bridges also needed to contribute offensively, but he finished with just 15 points on 6-of-17 shooting.

“We needed more from everyone tonight, myself included,” Bridges admitted postgame. “We started strong but just couldn’t sustain it in the second half.”

Turnovers were another major issue for New York, as they struggled with Golden State’s defensive pressure. The Warriors capitalized on these mistakes, turning 15 Knicks turnovers into 20 fast-break points.

The Warriors’ Defensive Adjustments Were Key

While Curry and Butler received most of the spotlight, Golden State’s defense played a critical role in their second-half comeback.

After allowing the Knicks to score 56 points in the first half, the Warriors locked in defensively, limiting them to just 46 points in the final two quarters. Key adjustments included:

• More aggressive perimeter defense, forcing the Knicks into tough shots.
• Doubling Brunson off screens, preventing him from getting easy looks in the paint.
• Better rebounding efforts, led by Draymond Green and Kevon Looney.

By taking away New York’s offensive rhythm, the Warriors were able to control the pace of the game and dictate the final outcome.

Playoff Implications for Both Teams

Warriors: A legitimate title contender?

With Jimmy Butler fully integrated into the lineup, the Warriors now look like a legitimate championship contender.

Currently sitting in the top four of the Western Conference standings, Golden State’s improved defense and offensive chemistry make them a serious threat to any team in the playoffs.

“This is the best we’ve looked all season,” said Klay Thompson, who chipped in with 18 points. “We’re finally clicking at the right time, and it feels like we’re building something special.”

If the Warriors can maintain this momentum, they could very well challenge the likes of Denver, Phoenix, and the Lakers for a shot at the NBA Finals.

Knicks: Can They Bounce Back?

For the Knicks, this loss raises some concerns. While they remain one of the top teams in the East, the absence of Karl-Anthony Towns exposed their lack of frontcourt depth.

Their upcoming schedule doesn’t get any easier, with matchups against Milwaukee, Boston, and Philadelphia in the next two weeks. If Towns remains out for an extended period, the Knicks will need Bridges, Anunoby, and their bench players to step up.

The biggest question moving forward: Can the Knicks compete against elite teams without Towns at full strength?

Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Golden State and New York?

The Warriors’ 114-102 victory over the Knicks showcased their championship pedigree, with Curry, Butler, and the defense stepping up when it mattered most.

Meanwhile, the Knicks showed promise early but faltered late, proving that they need all their key players healthy to remain a serious contender in the East.

As both teams continue their playoff push, this game could serve as a turning point for Golden State and a wake-up call for New York.

With the postseason quickly approaching, every game matters—and if the Warriors continue playing at this level, they might just be on their way to another deep playoff run.

Final Score:
🏀 Golden State Warriors 114 – New York Knicks 102

Key Performers:

• Stephen Curry: 28 PTS, 9 AST, 7 REB, 2 STL
• Jalen Brunson: 25 PTS, 7 AST
• OG Anunoby: 29 PTS, 6 REB
• Jimmy Butler: All-around impact with defense and leadership

Golden State is peaking at the right time—and with Curry leading the charge, the rest of the NBA should take notice.