The Golden State Warriors faced elimination after falling 117-110 to the Minnesota Timber Wolves in Game 4, and ended up in a volatile 1-3 series deficit.
Jimmy Butler’s lack of aggression became the focus of criticism as he attempted nine shots with 14 points without a single 3-pointer.
Despite putting external pressure on Butler to get more shots, Warriors Center Kevon Rooney came to defend his teammates at a post-game press conference.
“Jimmy is a great manager in the game. He knows when he needs to film more and knows when he’s picking his spot,” explained Rooney.
“I would never say, ‘Yeah, you had to be more aggressive.’ He needs to press the button and knows when he needs to go. ”
Rooney revealed that the team has full confidence in Butler’s decision-making, suggesting that they are taking on a leadership role in Stephen Curry’s absence.
“We’ve got the ultimate belief that when he’s painted, when he just wants to decide, when he takes a shot or when he’s trying to kick someone out, when he’s in the paint, he’s going to make the right decision.”
“So we followed his lead and did whatever he did,” Rooney added, confirming Butler had a major impact on the team’s offensive approach during this difficult stretch without a superstar point guard.
Rooney also tackled the broader challenges the Warriors have faced since losing Curry to a hamstring injury in Game 1.
“Obviously there’s no one in life in this series. We’re trying to push the tempo, get some extra possessions and play Jimmy,” he explained.
“I think the JK was really offensive. He’s scoring. I think everyone else could have taken open shots,” Rooney continued, highlighting Jonathan Cuminga’s team high 23 points in Game 4.
The Warriors’ offensive issues run deeper than Butler’s shot choices. No players other than Kuminga scored more than 14 points. The team did not have individuals making more than two three pointers.
With the Warriors facing exclusion, head coach Steve Kerr must find a collective solution to their shooting struggles, rather than burdening Butler alone.