Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler tore his right ACL during Monday's victory over the Miami Heat, ending his season just two weeks before the NBA trade deadline. The injury occurred in the third quarter of the 135-112 win, sidelining the 36-year-old All-Star for surgery at a yet-to-be-determined date. With the Warriors at 25-19 and eighth in the West, the loss dims their playoff prospects.
The injury struck with 7:41 remaining in the third quarter at Chase Center. Brandin Podziemski attempted a post-entry pass to Butler, who had sealed his defender, but Miami's Davion Mitchell collided with him mid-air. Butler landed awkwardly on his right leg, immediately screaming in pain and unable to bear weight on it. Teammates Buddy Hield and Jonathan Kuminga helped him to the locker room as the crowd fell silent.
The Warriors initially called it a knee injury, ruling Butler out for the game. Reports emerged overnight via ESPN's Shams Charania confirming a torn ACL. Butler's agent, Bernie Lee, described it as a "gut punch" but said his client would "attack this challenge" and return stronger. Butler posted on Instagram: "be back before you know it." Stephen Curry expressed hope, telling reporters, "Praying for the best, as far as scans."
In his second season with Golden State after a midseason trade from Miami in 2024-25, Butler averaged 20.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.4 steals per game on 51.9% shooting. Acquired to bolster Stephen Curry's title chase, his absence leaves the Warriors reliant on Curry's league-leading 27.6 points and 4.5 threes per game. Coach Steve Kerr had recently noted the team's growing momentum, saying after a prior win, "This is the most momentum we've had since we started out 4-1."
Now 25-19, Golden State sits 2.5 games from fourth in the West but faces a crowded playoff race. Butler's $54.1 million salary this season and $56.8 million next complicates trade plans ahead of February 5. Analysts suggest the injury may close Curry's championship window with the current roster, potentially shifting focus to youth like Kuminga or cap relief deals. The Warriors' +5000 odds to win the West reflect diminished hopes.
