Golden State Warriors small forward Jimmy Butler III is in the middle of a long recovery after tearing his ACL in January against the Miami Heat. Before the injury, Butler was a productive player since being traded out west. In 2025-2026, Butler averaged 20 points per game, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists. 

Butler was a part of a group that was on their way to a Play-In Tournament appearance, and it was clear the team missed him in his absence. While the injury to Butler was demoralizing to him and the rest of the roster, he has his sights set on coming back as early in the season as possible. 

"I mean hell, I hope it's early season," Butler said. I want to play as many games as I can while I can alongside Steph and [Draymond Green]. That was the reason Joe [Lacob] and them brought me here."

Jimmy Butler III is still viewed as a pivotal piece to this Warriors team, but that doesn't ensure him a spot on the roster long term. Butler is on a big contract, and with players like Draymond Green and Stephen Curry potentially playing their last season with the franchise, he could be a player Golden State could move off before next season. 

Butler is set to be a $56 million cap hit in 2026-2027, and he isn't expected to play a decent number of games for the Warriors next season. He has been linked to potential trades this offseason, but there have been no definitive reports that indicate Golden State wants to let go of him. 

If Butler stays, he can be a big addition for the team when he comes back midseason. Golden State is expected to be active this offseason and add more veterans to the roster, and while they aren't too flexible because of the big contracts they have on the roster, getting Butler back to play with the new additions could give them a boost. 

The Warriors also have some young players they will want to give some playing time to next season. With the No. 11 pick, the Warriors selected Yaxel Lendeborg out of Michigan. He was seen as one of the most NBA-ready prospects going into this draft, and by the end of next season, he could be a player who gets significant minutes. 

Butler is a big piece of this Warriors team, not only as a starter but as a vocal leader for the younger players who will look to take over the team once the veterans leave.