Jimmy Butler may be out for the season, but he's not leaving the Golden State Warriors.
The veteran forward rejoined the team on the road ahead of Monday night's game against the Washington Wizards, where he is still recovering from a torn ACL. While Butler's presence off the court has given him motivation, he made it clear that the road back won't be easy.
“All in all, I'm fine, man. I'm happy,” Butler said when speaking to reporters.
Despite maintaining a positive outlook, Butler didn't shy away from the reality of his situation. The 36-year-old admitted that the mental and physical torture of his recovery was one of the toughest periods of his career.
“It's hard. It's hard not being able to be with my teammates. Not being able to play the game I love,” Butler said. “Not being able to travel. It's tough, but the recovery is ongoing. We're doing what we're supposed to do to try to get back on the recovery timeline that we talked about.”
According to Sam Gordon, Butler has been in close contact with the team during his recovery, and reporters noted that he was present at Capital One Arena as he continues the recovery process.
“As soon as my body is ready, I promise I'll try to get back out there,” Butler said, via Sam Gordon.
Jimmy Butler was with the Warriors at Capital One Arena as he recovers from a torn right anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Butler said the past few weeks have been “tough,” but he's optimistic about his eventual return.
“As soon as my body is ready, I promise I'll work hard to get back out there.”
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— Sam Gordon (@BySamGordon) March 16, 2026
There is no exact timetable for a return, but Butler has made it clear that his focus is on returning as soon as his body allows.
“I do want to come back. We all know that,” Butler added. “I can't say when. Obviously, I'm going to help my guys win some games early … as long as my body is ready.”
His absence is being felt heavily. The Golden State Warriors have struggled to maintain consistency, especially with Stephen Curry also sidelined. The team has won just two of its past ten games and enters the Wizards game on a five-game losing streak.
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