Warriors reassess outlook after Jimmy Butler injury

The Warriors had been quietly gaining confidence in recent weeks, but Jimmy Butler’s injury has altered the outlook.

According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, improved play from role players such as De’Anthony Melton and Al Horford had fueled optimism inside the organization that Golden State could re-emerge as a contender if it stayed healthy.

That momentum, Amick writes, was disrupted by Butler’s injury, which could deal a significant blow to what coach Steve Kerr recently described as a “fading dynasty.”

With Butler sidelined, attention may shift to Jonathan Kuminga. Amick notes that league-wide interest in Kuminga is believed to be at a low point, but the situation could create an opportunity for both player and team.

If Kuminga is reinserted into the rotation and performs well over the next few weeks, it could increase his market and give the Warriors more favorable options should they explore a trade.

Kuminga has previously been viewed as a candidate for a change of scenery.

In a separate examination of the Warriors’ next steps, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reports that the front office is expected to keep all options open in the wake of Butler’s injury.

That includes evaluating roster flexibility and, at least theoretically, considering Butler’s future as the organization reassesses its direction.