Jimmy Butler may not return in 2026-27

The Golden State Warriors signed Jimmy Butler to an extension last season in hopes of getting two seasons with him alongside Steph Curry. They may end up only getting half a season.

After Butler tore his ACL in late January, his expected yearlong recovery could mean that Jimmy Buckets doesn't play until February at the earliest. At that point, the six-time All-Star may prioritize free agency over rushing back to the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler's contract often drives his decisions

Even if the Warriors were confident about Butler's recovery and the idea of pairing him with a 39-year-old Curry in 2027-28, they can't offer Butler an extension until February 2027. There's no telling how competitive the team will be 10 months from now, or if Steve Kerr will still be the coach. Historically, Butler has protected his financial interests when he doesn't have a long-term contract.

The Warriors have Butler thanks to his unhappiness with the Miami Heat, who refused to give Butler an extension. Butler effectively went on strike, enduring multiple suspensions until the Heat relented and traded him at the deadline.

Similar contract issues derailed Butler's time with the Minnesota Timberwolves, who traded him to the Philadelphia 76ers. Butler was on the Timberwolves to begin with because the Chicago Bulls chose to trade him instead of giving an extension. ESPN reported there was "an expectation that he will focus on rehabbing, rediscovering his form and then sorting out his NBA future the following summer."

Golden State Warriors are stuck with Jimmy Butler

The Warriors were pleased with the Butler addition, especially after he helped the team to a first-round upset of the Houston Rockets. However, they're in a difficult position with his massive contract and injury.

Steph Curry is reaching the end of his career. Coach Steve Kerr remains unsigned for next season. They're paying Butler $56.8M for a season where he may not contribute much, and may not play at all.

The team will certainly look at trading for another high-priced star, as they unsuccessful did in pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kawhi Leonard during the season. They ended up trading for Kristaps Porzingis, also unsigned for next year. Butler's contract could be used for matching salary, but trading for him means a team devotes nearly a third of their salary-cap space to a player who might not see the floor.

There's no good solution. The murkier the Warriors' future looks, the more likely it is that Butler won't be any part of it.