Warriors‘ Jimmy butler Finds focus After Offseason Trade
SAN FRANCISCO – Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler says he’s moved past the ”chaos” surrounding his offseason trade from the Miami Heat, embracing a new chapter with a clear focus on championship contention. Speaking after a preseason game on Oct. 5 at Chase Center, Butler emphasized his contentment with the Warriors’ surroundings adn his commitment to winning.
The trade, which sent Butler to Golden State in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, and draft picks, was preceded by widespread speculation and reports regarding his potential departure from Miami. However, Butler stated he remained unconcerned with the external narrative, choosing to concentrate on his own planning and future. “All of the talk, all of the smoke, there’s really only one person that didn’t say anything – who just went on with his life,” Butler said. “Let the people talk. The people that are lying know they’re lying. But I don’t need to correct anything. That’s behind me.”
Warriors General Manager Dunleavy Jr. expressed confidence in Butler’s fit with the team, citing his competitive spirit and high basketball IQ as key factors in pursuing the trade. Butler echoed that sentiment, stating he’s joined a team with a “winning culture” and a “phenomenal coach.”
Despite leading the Heat to NBA Finals appearances in 2020 and 2023, Butler has yet to secure an NBA championship. He acknowledged the difficulty of being separated from his three young children, who were initially remaining in Florida, but confirmed they have since relocated to join him. “That was very,very,very challenging,” he said. “But now they’re on this side” of the country.
Butler stressed his willingness to adapt his game to contribute to team success, prioritizing winning above individual statistics. “I haven’t won one of those,” he said, referring to a championship. “But you can’t call me a loser. I’ve won everywhere that I’ve been. I could care less about how many points I score, how many shots I get. Just tell me what you need me to do to help us win.”
Warriors coach Steve Kerr believes Butler’s addition provides the team with a important boost in playoff contention. “Jimmy gives us a swing at the plate,” Kerr said. ”We know – if healthy – we have a real chance to beat anybody in a playoff series. And that’s all you want.”
