Jimmy Butler suffers season-ending ACL injury: What it means for the Warriors’ title hopes
Jimmy Butler goes down with a knee injury and is helped off the court by his teammates. Image Source: ESPN
Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler is reportedly out for the rest of the 2025–26 NBA season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee, a crushing development for both the veteran forward and a Warriors team chasing one more championship run.
The injury occurred Monday night at Chase Center during Golden State’s 135–112 win over the Miami Heat, Butler’s former team. What began as a routine offensive possession quickly turned into a franchise-altering moment.
Multiple reports, including ESPN, confirmed overnight that Butler’s injury is season-ending, pending official MRI confirmation from the team.
How the Jimmy Butler Injury Happened
The incident unfolded with 7:41 remaining in the third quarter when Butler caught a contested pass in the paint and collided with Miami guard Davion Mitchell, who was whistled for a foul. Butler landed awkwardly on his right leg, immediately collapsing to the floor.
Footage showed Butler grimacing in pain and clutching his knee, remaining down for several minutes as medical staff attended to him. Though visibly hurt, Butler notably asked officials for two free throws, a moment Warriors coach Steve Kerr later described as a hopeful sign for Butler’s mindset.
Unable to put weight on his leg, Butler was escorted to the locker room by teammates Gary Payton II and Buddy Hield, bringing a stunned silence over the arena.
Reports Confirm Torn ACL, Season Over
By early Tuesday morning, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Butler had suffered a torn ACL, an injury that typically requires surgery and months of rehabilitation. The Warriors said Butler would undergo an MRI, with no official medical update expected until later.
If confirmed, the torn ACL would mark the third significant injury to Butler’s right knee in his career, following a meniscus tear in 2018 and an MCL sprain in 2024.
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Steve Kerr, Stephen Curry React to Butler Injury
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the emotional toll of the moment.
“Everybody is subdued because of the injury,” Kerr said postgame. “He’s an alpha. When he’s on the floor, everyone knows that’s the guy.”
Stephen Curry, visibly shaken, praised Butler’s toughness and humor even in pain.
“It’s kind of funny — he was still cracking jokes,” Curry said. “That’s Jimmy. Even in the worst moments, he finds a way to stay himself.”
Jimmy Butler’s Impact on Golden State This Season
At 36 years old, Butler had remained a critical piece of Golden State’s offense. Entering Monday night, he was averaging:
- 20.1 points
- 5.6 rebounds
- 4.9 assists
- 1.4 steals
- 51.9% shooting from the field
- 38.1% from three
In just under 21 minutes against Miami, Butler had already posted 17 points, four assists, and three rebounds, underlining his importance as the Warriors’ second-leading scorer behind Curry.
Golden State acquired Butler during the 2024–25 season in a bold move to maximize the final years of Curry’s prime. The pairing had pushed the Warriors to a 25–19 record, eighth in the Western Conference entering the week.
What Butler’s Injury Means for the Warriors’ Playoff Hopes
The loss of Butler is widely viewed as a massive setback to Golden State’s postseason ambitions. While the Warriors boast depth and experience, Butler’s two-way presence, physicality, and playoff pedigree are difficult to replace.
Without him, Golden State faces an uphill climb in a stacked Western Conference, with their championship aspirations now hanging by a thread
FAQ
What injury did Jimmy Butler suffer?
Jimmy Butler reportedly suffered a torn ACL in his right knee, an injury that is expected to end his 2025–26 NBA season.
When did Jimmy Butler get injured?
Butler was injured on January 20, 2026, during the third quarter of the Warriors’ game against the Miami Heat.
Is Jimmy Butler out for the season?
Yes. Multiple reports indicate Butler’s ACL tear is season-ending, pending official MRI confirmation.
How did Jimmy Butler tear his ACL?
The injury occurred after Butler landed awkwardly following contact while catching a pass in the paint against Miami.
Did Jimmy Butler leave the court on his own?
No. Butler was helped off the court by teammates and could not put weight on his right leg.
What did Steve Kerr say about the injury?
Kerr said the team was deeply concerned and emphasized Butler’s leadership and importance to the Warriors.
How important was Jimmy Butler to the Warriors this season?
Butler was Golden State’s second-leading scorer and a central figure in their offense and defense.
What does this mean for the Warriors’ playoff chances?
The injury significantly damages Golden State’s title hopes, making a deep playoff run far more difficult.
Has Jimmy Butler injured this knee before?
Yes. Butler previously suffered a meniscus tear (2018) and an MCL sprain (2024) in the same knee.