Jimmy Butler, a veteran NBA player with 15 years of experience across five teams, has stated his intention to retire as a member of the Golden State Warriors. According to ESPN NBA insider Anthony Slater, Butler expressed his desire to conclude his career with the organization.
"End is a bad word, but this is where I want to be done," Butler told Slater. "Retire here. This organization is top-tier. It’s the best. Keep it a buck. It’s the best. You’re playing with one of the greatest players ever. I’m grateful to be able to witness this. I want to be able to do my part, get this organization back on top where we belong."
Butler is entering his third season with the Warriors, having been traded to the team midway through the 2024-2025 NBA season. His tenure in Golden State has been impacted by injuries, limiting his appearances.
Butler has played in only 68 games for the Warriors, with his 2025-26 season being cut short by a torn ACL suffered in January. Upon his arrival, Butler contributed to a 23-8 run that helped propel the Warriors to the playoffs, where they defeated the Rockets in the first round. However, that playoff run was subsequently disrupted when Stephen Curry was sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Since Butler joined the team, he and Curry have only played together in 60 games.
"It just sucks because we ain’t never really been healthy together," Butler stated. "Part of winning is being healthy. You ain’t seen us healthy at the end in the playoffs when it matters. Let’s be healthy and then all of that [doubting] can be heard."
As Butler prepares to return from his injury and rejoin teammates Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, he indicated that his rehabilitation process has been progressing positively. He is reportedly six weeks away from being able to run at full speed but is already capable of jumping and dunking off his left leg.