Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr offered a positive update on Jimmy Butler’s health, saying the six-time All-Star’s ankle sprain is minor and not expected to keep him out for long.
“It was clean,” Kerr said of Butler’s MRI, per ESPN’s Anthony Slater. “We’re not concerned.”
Kerr confirmed Butler, 36, is day-to-day after sustaining the injury in practice last week, calling the setback “nothing serious” as the Warriors proceed cautiously with their veteran forward.
Butler’s Arrival Revitalized the Warriors
Since Butler arrived in a midseason trade last year, the Warriors have looked like a new team. His energy, toughness, and leadership fueled a late surge that saw Golden State go 23–8 to close the regular season and claw back into the playoff picture.
Despite battling a pelvic contusion during the first round against the Houston Rockets, Butler helped the Warriors advance before the team’s run ended in the second round when Stephen Curry suffered a hamstring injury. Golden State dropped four straight to the Minnesota Timberwolves after taking Game 1.
Still, Butler’s influence transformed the team’s mentality. His defensive intensity and competitiveness injected a spark reminiscent of the Warriors’ earlier championship years.
Curry, Green Praise Butler’s Leadership
Curry said having Butler for a full training camp gives the team much-needed continuity.
“It helps him as a player and as a person to have stability,” Curry said on media day. “Based on how last year ended, he knows the system, knows what he brings, and how he can help us win. Having that clarity going into camp just gives everyone confidence. The way we finished the year was fun for all of us.”
Forward Draymond Green echoed that sentiment, noting how Butler’s presence has helped shape the team’s identity early in camp.
“You can build an identity from the beginning,” Green said. “Defensive communication, effort, tone — all those things start now, and Jimmy sets that example every day.”
Butler Confident in Warriors’ Championship Aspirations
Before the injury, Butler appeared in two preseason games, scoring nine points in the opener and 12 in the second contest. He also spoke candidly about his motivation to finally win an NBA title.
“We realize there’s not enough talking in the world — we have to go out there and produce,” Butler said. “We’re joyful and happy to compete together. I smile knowing we’ve got a great chance to win a championship.”
In a move that strengthened team chemistry, Butler hosted his teammates at his home in San Diego before camp began. Buddy Hield, one of the Warriors’ key offseason additions, called it a powerful gesture of unity.
“What Jimmy did was phenomenal,” Hield said. “Hosting everyone, welcoming the team into his home — that shows leadership. The camaraderie was amazing. I’ve never experienced that in my 10 years in the NBA.”
Warriors’ Veteran Core Faces Big Challenge
With Butler’s ankle sprain deemed minor, the Warriors expect him back soon as they prepare for a crucial season in the Western Conference. The front office is banking on the combination of Butler’s leadership, Curry’s scoring brilliance, and Green’s defensive mastery to anchor another playoff push.
Still, Kerr knows the ultimate test won’t come in October — it will come in April. The Warriors’ hopes hinge on whether their aging core, including Butler, can withstand the grind of the 82-game regular-season schedule and stay healthy when the playoffs arrive.
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