Jimmy Butler Joins Warriors After Turbulent Miami Exit

Jimmy Butler's arrival has significantly impacted the Golden State Warriors as they approach the 2025-26 NBA season. After a slow preseason in free-throw attempts, Butler's perfect 7-of-7 in the first quarter against the Lakers highlighted what the Warriors had been missing, contributing to a strong first half with teammate Stephen Curry. Butler, a six-time NBA All-Star with a decorated career, joined the Warriors following a turbulent exit from the Miami Heat, where his trade request and suspension marked a difficult end to his five-and-a-half years there. Despite being the team's second option behind Curry, Butler embraces his role without ego, emphasizing winning over personal stats, and seamlessly fitting into Steve Kerr's system. His acquisition helped the Warriors achieve a 23-8 record after February 2025, though the team faces pressure with an aging core to make a deep playoff run. Butler has expressed excitement about joining a championship-focused organization, shedding the negative portrayal from his Miami tenure while committing fully to the Warriors' success.