Warriors' Steve Kerr Speaks Out on Jimmy Butler's Status for Bulls Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Dec 6, 2025 7:12 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors are going to be without Jimmy Butler again on Saturday night as they face off against the Cleveland Cavaliers on the road. Butler will miss a second straight game due to a knee injury, which also forced him to sit out Thursday’s loss against his former team, the Philadelphia 76ers.

Butler has been relatively healthy for the Warriors early in the season, having only missed two games prior to this knee issue. He’s made 20 appearances for Golden State in his first full season with the team, averaging 19.5 points on 51.9% shooting, 5.6 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.6 steals in 30.9 minutes per contest.

Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III (10) to miss game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.© William Liang-Imagn Images

The Warriors are dealing with an injury crisis right now. Apart from Butler, Steph Curry (quad) and Draymond Green (foot) are also out against the Cavs. Likewise, Al Horford (sciatica), De’Anthony Melton (knee) and Seth Curry (toe) will also be sidelined.

Saturday’s matchup is the front end of a back-to-back set for Golden State. This team will be on the road again on Sunday against the Chicago Bulls. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr spoke to reporters on Saturday ahead of tip-off, and he was able to provide an update on Butler’s status.

When asked whether his injured players will suit up on Sunday against the Bulls, Kerr responded positively.

"I’m optimistic, but I’m not sure yet," Kerr said.

Based on this statement, Kerr has hinted at the possibility of Butler returning on Sunday after a two-game absence. There is no guarantee, but the optimism from the Warriors coach is a good sign. Green, Horford, Seth Curry and Melton also have a chance to come back on Sunday.

Steph Curry, on the other hand, will remain sidelined. However, the former back-to-back MVP is progressing well in his road to recovery. Kerr penciled in Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves as the potential return date for the 11-time All-Star.

The Warriors enter Saturday’s game against the 14-10 Cavs with an 11-12 record. A road win in Cleveland will bring them back to .500 as they navigate through their early-season injury woes.

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

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