The Golden State Warriors’ championship hopes may be in jeopardy after Jimmy Butler suffered a season-ending ACL tear. The injury took place during Monday night’s matchup against the Miami Heat, after Butler landed awkwardly on his right leg following contact with Davion Mitchell.
This season, Butler averaged 20.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists over 38 games. His two-year, $121 million contract extension expires at the end of the 2026-2027 season.
With the NBA’s trade deadline approaching on February 5, the Warriors may decide to move Butler. Doing so could maximize the franchise’s championship window, as the 37-year-old Stephen Curry is in the later stage of his playing career.
On Tuesday night, Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy addressed trade speculation surrounding Butler.
“I don’t envision that,” Dunleavy said. “Now that you’ve brought it up, I’d say my vision for him is to give us a boost next year the same way he did last year when he arrived.”
The Next Steps for Golden State
At 25-20, the Warriors hold the eight spot in the Western Conference standings. The franchise is on a 7-3 run in its last ten games.
Prior to Butler’s injury, Jonathan Kuminga was a trending name on the trade market. Kuminga reportedly requested a trade from the Warriors on January 15, the first day he was eligible to be moved.
Kuminga started the season as a regular starter before head coach Steve Kerr relegated him to Golden State’s secondary unit. The 23-year-old forward may see an increase in minutes with Butler on the sidelines indefinitely.
In his first game since December, Kuminga totaled 20 points, five rebounds, and two assists in 20 minutes against the Toronto Raptors. He was the team’s second-highest scorer behind Buddy Hield.
The Warriors’ front office will have two weeks to determine if Kuminga fits into his new role or whether it’s time to put together a trade deal. In either case, Butler’s injury adds further pressure on Golden State to make adjustments before the deadline.
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