Harsh Reality Has Arrived For Jimmy Butler, Warriors, NBA Analyst Says

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By JH Kubicek | Last updated May 14, 2025 11:09 AM ET

The Golden State Warriors are down 1-3 in the second round against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and with a "superman" Stephen Curry return having been taken off the table for Game 5, the Warriors will need Jimmy Butler to shoulder the team on both ends of the floor.

However, Butler has so far not risen to the occasion in the postseason, especially not in the second round. When the Warriors traded for him, they expected him to be able to lead the team if needed.

It turns out, he might just be a high-level sidekick.

Father Time Has Arrived for Jimmy Butler

Not every NBA player can defy age. LeBron James has spoiled fans by excelling through his late 30s and into his 40s. Butler is 35 years old and is likely on his last NBA contract, married to the Golden State Warriors for the next two seasons.

Without Curry, as usual, the Warriors might not be able to compete moving forward, and Butler's injury history could be to blame.

"Butler's own injury, a pelvic contusion he suffered in Game 2 against the Houston Rockets, could be partially to blame, but he's played over 40 minutes in two of the four games against Minnesota," explained Bleacher Report's And Bailey. "Golden State's free-flowing, egalitarian offense could be a factor, but Butler was willing and able color outside similar lines with Miami. Maybe he's simply aged out of the 'Playoff Jimmy' era. Butler turns 36 in September. Every NBA player, even the biggest stars, start to fade at some point. We might be there with Butler."

If Butler can't create at a high level for himself and the rest of the Warriors, then it's safe to say that their season will end on Wednesday night.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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