It’s been two weeks since the Golden State Warriors lost Jimmy Butler III due to a right ACL tear. The Warriors star hustled for a loose ball and collided with Davion Mitchell during a game against the Miami Heat on Jan. 19, resulting in an awkward landing on his foot that caused the injury.
Now that Butler’s season came to an abrupt end, speculation has surfaced about the Warriors potentially trading him. However, an NBA insider revealed that Golden State has cleared the air and set the record straight regarding its plans for Butler.
Warriors Have No Intention of Trading Jimmy Butler III
With the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline rapidly approaching, numerous rumors have circulated suggesting the Warriors could pursue a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
While the Bucks have stressed that they have no plans to trade their Greek superstar, many around the league believe an Antetokounmpo deal remains a possibility this season, with the Warriors viewed as one of the top potential suitors.
Acquiring the Greek Freak would require a significant return. Butler had been rumored as a potential centerpiece to help Golden State match salary in a deal for Antetokounmpo.
However, NBA insider Nick Friedell reported that the Warriors have no intention of trading Butler while he undergoes rehabilitation for his torn ACL.
“Even in recent days, the Warriors have made it clear to Butler that they are going to stick by him as he begins a year-long rehab,” Friedell reported. “But actions, as always, will speak louder than words — especially if the Bucks are motivated to move Antetokounmpo before the deadline, and the Warriors are steadfast in not including Butler as part of the package.”
“In recent days, one league source said the Warriors have made it clear to Jimmy Butler that they are going to stick by him as he begins a year-long rehab.” – @NickFriedell
Via @TheAthletic: https://t.co/1ZQ5u9tO8t pic.twitter.com/cmjro0kRvt
— Dru (@dru_star) February 1, 2026
Just days after Butler’s injury, Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy said the team expects the veteran to be back next year and help them in another playoff run.
“I’d say my vision for him is to give us a boost next year, the same way he did last year when he arrived,” Dunleavy said.
Other Warriors-related rumors suggest Draymond Green could now serve as the centerpiece in a potential Antetokounmpo trade before the deadline. A package involving Green could include Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Moses Moody, along with several first-round draft picks.
