Jimmy Butler let Buddy Hield know exactly how he felt during the Warriors’ loss to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night.
Golden State came into the game on a three-game winning streak but couldn’t keep it going at the Kia Center, despite strong performances from Stephen Curry and Butler, who combined for 67 points.
Still, their efforts weren’t enough to get the job done. Orlando pulled away in the second half, taking advantage of mistakes that cost Golden State any real chance to get back into it late on.
A key moment came in the third quarter when Cole Anthony hit a three-pointer after a missed defensive rotation by Hield. Butler reacted immediately, turning towards Hield and calling him out for not being where he was supposed to be.
The Magic took full control after that, outscoring Golden State 58-43 in the second half as turnovers piled up and any hopes of a comeback faded quickly.
Jimmy Butler shouts at Buddy Hield after mistake vs Magic
While standing in the corner with the ball, Jimmy Butler spotted Buddy Hield making a cut towards the hoop.
He attempted to hit Hield with a pass near the paint, but it sailed over his head and out of play. A few minutes later, during a stoppage in play, Butler could be heard saying: “Put your hands up. I’m never passing you the ball again.”
Hield responded: “Don’t be like that.” The two have built a good rapport since joining the Warriors, so this exchange probably won’t lead to any lasting issues.
Still, it did reflect how flat Golden State looked against Orlando – something that’s been said about their season overall.
Jimmy Butler points to turnovers after Warriors loss
A key factor in the Warriors’ 121-113 defeat to the Magic was their turnover margin. Golden State gave the ball away 18 times, four more than Orlando, with Butler responsible for three of those.
After the game, Butler admitted that he needs to be better in that area, acknowledging his role in setting the tone for the team.
“We turned the ball over a lot. They got some costly offensive rebounds, and that’s the game,” Butler said after the game. “I’m not going to say it’s frustrating. I can’t expect my guys not to turn the ball over when I’m out there turning it over myself.”
“I’ve always been one to lead by example, so if I’m turning it over, I guess it gives everyone else permission to do it too.
“We’ve just got to get back to valuing every single possession, and that starts with me taking care of the basketball.”
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