Jimmy Butler made quite the impact in his debut with the Golden State Warriors, giving fans hope for an exciting future ahead. The former Miami Heat star put up 25 points on 7-of-12 shooting, along with four assists and two rebounds in his first game with the team following a trade deadline move. His stellar performance played a crucial role in the Warriors’ impressive 24-point comeback victory over the Chicago Bulls, with a final score of 132-111.
Despite his initial jest about just passing the ball to Stephen Curry and getting out of the way, Butler showcased a diverse skill set on the court alongside the Warriors’ star player. Notably, Butler’s jersey now bears the name “Butler III” in tribute to his late father, who passed away exactly a year ago.
Curry was also instrumental in the Warriors’ win, contributing 34 points on 10-of-19 shooting, including an impressive 8-of-16 from beyond the arc, along with six assists and five rebounds.
Butler’s arrival in Golden State came as part of a complex four-team trade that saw the departure of Andrew Wiggins, Dennis Schröder, Kyle Anderson, Lindy Waters III, and a protected first-round pick. The six-time All-Star’s move from Miami was marked by some tension, as he received multiple suspensions due to his desire to leave the Heat organization.
For Butler, joining the Warriors represents a fresh start, especially after signing a two-year, $121 million extension that aligns his tenure with the team alongside Curry’s current contract. Despite having one of the oldest cores in the league, with Butler at 35 years old, Curry at 36, and Draymond Green at 34, the Warriors are focused on immediate success.
The victory pushed the Warriors’ record to 26-26, placing them in 10th position and in contention for a play-in spot in the competitive Western Conference. Their next challenge awaits them on Monday as they face the Milwaukee Bucks on the road.