Warriors vs. Blazers: Is Jimmy Butler Playing Tonight?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Nov 21, 2025 6:27 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors sat out their stars on Wednesday against the Miami Heat, which included Jimmy Butler, who was sidelined with a back injury. It was the second contest of a back-to-back set and the final game of a six-game road trip, which likely factored into the team’s decision to give Butler and Co. the night off.

With Butler, Steph Curry, Draymond Green, Al Horford and Jonathan Kuminga all out of action, Golden State struggled against the Heat. They ultimately suffered a 110-96 defeat, marking their second straight loss after falling to the Orlando Magic the previous night, 121-113.

Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler (10) during a game.© Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Is Jimmy Butler Playing Tonight?

Butler sat out for just the second time this season on Wednesday night. However, he missed the chance to play against his former team following last season’s blockbuster trade from the Heat.

The back issue does not appear to be a significant concern for Butler and the Warriors. The five-time All-NBA forward looked fine on Tuesday against the Magic, registering 33 points on 10-of-16 shooting, seven rebounds, four assists and three steals in 38 minutes of action.

It appears that Butler will be back on the court for Friday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers. As of writing, he is officially listed as probable to play. This only means he will likely be back in the starting lineup, unless there is an unexpected setback between now and the 10:00 p.m. ET tip-off.

It’s not only Butler who’s in line to return. Neither Curry nor Horford was included in the injury report, meaning they will both be back in action against the Blazers. Green, on the other hand, is also probable to play. Kuminga, though, remains sidelined with a knee issue.

Butler has been a major force for the Warriors in his first full season with the team. In 15 games played thus far, the 36-year-old has averaged 20.1 points on 53.5% shooting, 5.5 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.0 triples in 31.3 minutes per contest.

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

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