Warriors' Steve Kerr reveals why Jimmy Butler's impact could be long-lasting

The Golden State Warriors have shown impressive consistency in the NBA. They struggled with inconsistencies early in the season. However, Jimmy Butler’s arrival transformed the team’s reality. His impact has been so strong that the Warriors now hold a seven-game winning streak. After his impressive impact, Steve Kerr explained why Butler’s influence goes beyond short-term success.

“Ultimately, I believe that Steph Curry, what Steph represents, I just think Jimmy respects that and I can see the relationship between them and the mutual respect. I just believe that it’s going to work and it’s one of the great benefits of Steph. People don’t want to disappoint Steph,” stated Kerr as reported by Logan Murdock.

Jimmy Butler‘s arrival transformed the Warriors. He achieved this by putting his talent at the team’s service. To do so, he set aside his ego. Butler explained that he wanted to feel important, and the Warriors fulfilled that. They did not give him control of the offense. Instead, they made him part of a strong group where he plays a vital role.

Even after the Warriors’ loss to the Denver Nuggets, he came out publicly to take responsibility for the defeat: “That’s on myself and that’s on us as a unit to pick up the slack for (Curry)…He’s our leader and we must protect him at all times.” This makes it clear that he took on a secondary role, but where he is more relevant than in his previous stint with the Miami Heat. On the Warriors, Butler is more focused on what’s important: winning.

Jimmy Butler #10 of the Golden State Warriors looks on against the Houston Rockets during the second half at Toyota Center on February 13, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr praises Jimmy Butler’s NBA legacy

Before joining the Golden State Warriors, Jimmy Butler had already made his mark on the NBA. He led the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals with his impressive talent. His leadership proved crucial during that run. In Miami, Butler made history. However, he no longer felt part of the team’s project and decided to leave. The Warriors took advantage of the situation and signed him.

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After the stunning impact of his arrival to the Golden State Warriors, the franchise’s general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr made a curious confession about him: “I’ve always thought he’d be a great fit here…This guy was taking teams to the Finals and all that, so it’s not even a conversation. As things unfolded this season with Miami, it felt like there was a little bit of a window to try and get something done, and fortunately we were able to.”

Butler silenced his critics with his performance. Many doubted if his ego could coexist with Stephen Curry. However, his talent and winning mentality proved the Warriors’ general manager made the right call. His arrival has already brought positive results. Butler impacted the entire roster by showing he can shine without being the team’s No. 1 option.