The Golden State Warriors beat the Minnesota Timberwolves by 10 points in Game 1 even after their best player, Stephen Curry, exited early. Tonight at 8:30 p.m. ET, the Timberwolves will look to even the series, but Playoff Jimmy might have something to say about that.
Jimmy Butler is averaging 18.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game in the playoffs this season. While playing with Curry, Butler has taken a backseat offensively. But with Curry out for Game 2, Playoff Jimmy is desperately needed for Golden State to have a chance to go up 2-0. Here is my favorite prop bet for Butler against the Wolves tonight.
Jimmy Butler over 24.5 points (-120)
Butler is one of the best playoff performers in recent memory, and he seems to elevate his game when the pressure is most significant and the stakes are the highest. Butler attempted 13 or fewer field goals in three of his last five games. But tonight, his offensive volume should be much higher without Curry. You can get Butler to score over 24.5 points at -120 on DraftKings Sportsbook.
In Butler’s six full playoff games this season, he has totaled 25 or more points three times. Butler hasn’t had three straight playoff games with under 24.5 points since the 2021-22 postseason. With the Warriors’ championship pedigree, they aren’t going to fold even with their best player out.
Draymond Green is their leader, but Butler will need to take over the majority of duties leading the offense. Butler has attempted 20 or more field goals four times this season. Although he hit that mark and only scored 20 points in Game 1, he has scored at least 25 points in the prior three times.
