Jimmy Butler opens up about the Warriors' NBA title chances if paired with Stephen Curry

The Golden State Warriors have put their regular-season struggles behind them. After a tough finish to the NBA season, they proved on Tuesday night that they’re ready to contend for another title. With a four-day break before the playoffs begin, the team, led by Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler, will face the Houston Rockets in the opening round.

Despite a strong effort from Ja Morant and the Grizzlies, the Warriors came out on top. It was a tight contest, with Golden State securing a narrow five-point win, even as Desmond Bane dropped 30 points for Memphis. Still, the Warriors showed they’re prepared to battle any opponent on their path to the ultimate goal: another NBA championship.

Confidence is high in the Warriors’ camp, and Butler didn’t hold back when sharing his outlook on the team’s playoff push. He addressed the media with a message about his role and what he brings to the table in the postseason.

“When I talked to Steph and Dray and Steve before I even got here, I told them I can help,” Butler said. “I feel like I can give any team, especially this one, a chance to win a title. I want everybody to be happy, especially Steph. He deserves it. What he’s done for the game of basketball—not just this city and this organization—is incredible.”

Draymond Green #23 and Jimmy Butler #10 of the Golden State Warriors speak on the court against the Houston Rockets during the first half at Toyota Center on February 13, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

Butler reflects on making the playoffs after midseason drama

It was a turbulent regular season for Jimmy Butler. Midway through the campaign, Butler stepped away from the Miami Heat, ending a six-year run with the franchise. At the time, his future in the league was uncertain, until the Golden State Warriors stepped in and brought the NBA All-Star forward on board.

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Speaking about that transition and the off-court drama involving Heat president Pat Riley, Butler opened up about his mindset heading into the postseason. “I knew I was going to be in the playoffs, no matter what happened in Miami,” Butler said. “And when I got here, I told them we were going to the playoffs.”

With a playoff spot now secured, the Warriors are preparing to face the Houston Rockets, a team that had an outstanding season and is chasing its first championship in three decades.

Curry praises Butler’s seamless fit with the Warriors

Stephen Curry spoke about the positive energy within the locker room and the impact Butler has had since joining the team. According to the two-time MVP, Butler’s arrival was a turning point for the Warriors down the stretch.

“Everything felt pretty natural from the first game,” Curry said. “It was a smooth transition with how our team looked after the trade, and that was a great feeling. From there, we just kept it rolling.”