'Playoff Jimmy' Improves Chances of Bold Stephen Curry Prediction Coming True

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By JH Kubicek | Last updated Mar 4, 2025 3:13 PM ET

At one point this season, the Golden State Warriors were 12-3, had the best record in the Western Conference, and looked the part of a legitimate title contender. Quickly after that hot start, the Warriors collapsed, falling to 11th in the Conference and in danger of missing the playoffs, although, currently boasting the seventh seed, they seem to have found equilibrium.

After adding Jimmy Butler a day before the NBA trade deadline, the Dubs have gone 8-2 and look like a dangerous team that no one will want to face in the playoffs. Butler hasn't been as efficient as usual in Golden State, but he is averaging a solid 16 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.4 assists while boosting the Warriors' floor and ceiling.

As Butler continues to fit in with his fifth team, Golden State is expected to get even better, and Stephen Curry isn't the only player benefiting from Butler's addition.

"He provides Curry with a proven playoff performer and scorer when the game's greatest shooter is double-teamed," wrote ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk. "Butler can get to the free throw line, and his ability to make the extra pass has unlocked perimeter offense for the likes of Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, Moses Moody and Quinten Post."

Before the trade, Curry still had faith in his team, issuing a bold prediction, although now the chances of it coming true seem much higher.

"Curry told ESPN before the trade that the Warriors believe they can beat anyone in a seven-game series due to their championship pedigree and experience," Youngmisuk continued. "Add Playoff Jimmy and the Warriors feel they can surprise people perhaps with another title run like the one in 2022."

The Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers have also climbed the standings, garnering attention, but make no mistake, the Warriors can beat anyone, anytime.

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

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