Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry jokes that Jimmy Butler treats the Play-In like an all-expenses-paid vacation - "We would love to have that opportunity!"

The Golden State Warriors are heading into the

NBA Play-In Tournament

once again, and Stephen Curry recently shared a lighthearted exchange with teammate Jimmy Butler about their contrasting fortunes in the tournament.

Stephen Curry references Jimmy Butler’s play-in tournament luck

After the Golden State Warriors’ 124-119 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers in their final regular-season game, Stephen Curry was asked how the team’s past Play-In experiences could help this time around. He revealed a recent conversation with Jimmy Butler, who has had far more success in the tournament.
"We joked about that last week," Stephen Curry told 95.7 The Game. "He went into the Play-In packing for two months, so we would love to have that opportunity. What we can learn is we need to win. We haven’t had a good outcome in the Play-In." (H/t: ClutchPoints)

Butler led the Miami Heat on an improbable run last season, advancing from the Play-In to the NBA Finals. Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are 0-3 in the tournament since its inception.

Golden State Warriors face Memphis Grizzlies with playoff hopes on the line

Golden State Warriors will first take on the Memphis Grizzlies, with the winner advancing to face the Houston Rockets in the first round. A loss would send them to a do-or-die game against the winner of the Sacramento Kings-Dallas Mavericks matchup, with the Oklahoma City Thunder awaiting the victor.
The Warriors had hoped to avoid the Play-In altogether, but the loss to the Clippers sealed their fate. Kawhi Leonard and James Harden delivered in the clutch to secure the win for Los Angeles, who now face the Denver Nuggets in the playoffs.

Can the Warriors turn play-in struggles into playoff success?

Since acquiring Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline, the Warriors have played with renewed energy. Their experience, including Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Butler himself, could prove vital in high-pressure situations.
While the Play-In has been unkind to Golden State in the past, Butler’s presence brings hope. His ability to elevate his game in elimination scenarios might be exactly what the Warriors need to finally break through.
Also read: Steve Kerr's costly gamble against the LA Clippers: The baffling decision that sent the Golden State Warriors crashing out of contention
The team’s first test comes against Memphis, where a win would not only extend their season but also give them a chance to replicate Jimmy Butler’s magic from a year ago.