Jimmy Butler III was in the middle of steadying what had been a chaotic season for the Golden State Warriors when everything came to a halt in January 2026. The six-time All-Star, who quickly became a key piece after arriving in the Bay Area last year, is now facing a long road to recovery following a season-ending ACL injury.
But before disappearing into rehab for the next several months, Butler made sure to send a message to the fanbase that embraced him from day one.
Jimmy Butler III Thanks Dub Nation in Emotional Letter
Butler joined the Warriors at the February 2025 trade deadline as part of a two-year, $111 million deal and immediately made an impact.
Golden State went 23-8 after his arrival, securing a playoff spot during the stretch run. This season, Butler continued to anchor the team through an inconsistent campaign, averaging 20 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while shooting 51.9% from the field and 37.6% from beyond the arc in 31.1 minutes per night.
However, his season came to an abrupt end after he suffered a right ACL injury on Jan. 19. Butler underwent surgery on Feb. 9 and is expected to be in rehabilitation for 10 to 12 months.
In a message shared by Ray Almeda of NBA The Run on Feb. 20, Butler expressed his appreciation for Warriors season ticket holders.
“I have played in front of many incredible crowds over my 15 seasons in the NBA,” Butler said. “But there was always something about playing in the Bay Area that made it feel like more than just another game.”
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He added that he immediately sensed the opportunity to build something meaningful after being traded to Golden State.
“The energy you provided us down the stretch last year was magical, as we finished the season winning 23 of 31 games and, ultimately, clinching a playoff berth.
And playing with Steph and all of my teammates in The Bay has been an incredible experience. Steph is truly the greatest shooter and showman of all time, and I am honored to be the Robin to his Batman,” Butler said.
Golden State appeared to be regaining momentum before Butler’s injury, winning 12 of 16 games in mid-January.
“Every NBA season is a puzzle and we were beginning to figure ours out,” Butler said. “Unfortunately, on January 19 against Miami, I tore my ACL. I was devastated.”
The veteran forward acknowledged the disappointment of missing what he described as a key opportunity in a competitive Western Conference.
“After being in this league for as long as I have, you eventually realize that you only have a certain number of these golden opportunities. Nonetheless, we move forward and will continue to battle our way to the postseason.
I am excited to see my guys compete for the remainder of this season, but also heartbroken to know that I will not be out there with them. They’re my brothers,” Butler said.
The former NBA Most Improved Player thanks the fans for their support, adding:
“Despite experiencing almost every emotion over the last 12 months – from the highs of the fourth most wins in the NBA to the lows of a pair of season-ending injuries – your support has been unwavering.
“I can see clearly now why you, our Warriors season ticket family, are known as the best fans in the NBA. You are our most loyal supporters, and your incredible energy is the fuel that drives this team.”
Despite the setback, Butler vowed to remain committed to his recovery process.
“I can promise you that I will attack my rehab with a singular focus that will enable me to get back to playing the game that I love,” he said.
The Warriors are currently 29-27 this season and sit eighth in the Western Conference standings. They have gone 4-6 in their last 10 games and hold a 23-15 record in games Butler has played.
As the Golden State continues its postseason push without one of its most consistent performers, Butler’s absence will likely test the team’s depth in the second half of the 2025-26 season.
