Stephen Curry Praises Jimmy Butler’s Impact as Warriors Dominate Post-Trade

NBA Trade Rumors: Stephen Curry Praises Jimmy Butler’s Impact as Warriors Dominate Post-Trade

The Golden State Warriors took a bold step at the NBA trade deadline, acquiring Jimmy Butler after his fallout with the Miami Heat. While the move initially sparked mixed reactions, Butler has proven to be a game-changer. Since his arrival, the Warriors have gone 12-1 with him in the lineup, reigniting their playoff hopes.

Curry Reflects on the Emotional Trade Deadline
The trade wasn’t without controversy. Butler’s departure from Miami was turbulent, and many questioned whether his addition would disrupt Golden State’s chemistry. However, Stephen Curry and the Warriors have thrived with Butler in the mix.

Looking back on the emotional day of the trade, Curry detailed the rollercoaster of emotions the team experienced.

“That was a whirlwind of a day. We were about to play Utah, and [there were] rumors, talks, conversations, what-ifs — and then it happened. So first, you're upset because you're losing guys that you went to war with, [Andrew Wiggins] especially. He helped us win a championship and we saw him flourish for the five years he was here. Dennis [Schroder], Kyle [Anderson], Lindy [Waters III], seeing those guys go who were a big part of [us] earlier in the year,” Curry said via the Steiny & Guru Show.

Even head coach Steve Kerr was frustrated that the trade deadline coincided with their game against the Utah Jazz, making the emotional shift even more difficult. Losing Andrew Wiggins, a key piece in their 2022 championship run, was particularly tough for the team.

But despite the initial uncertainty, Butler’s presence has been nothing short of transformative for the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler: The Game-Changer for Golden State

While Butler may not always dominate the scoring column, his impact on the game goes far beyond points. His defense, leadership, and playmaking have elevated the Warriors, helping them climb the Western Conference standings.

Curry emphasized just how valuable Butler has been, especially in making his teammates better.

“And then you think about the future. We were excited that Jimmy was here. We were understanding of who he was as a superstar, and the idea that he plays basketball a very similar way, trying to, as he would say, make the right play. But he demands a presence, and it's a guy you have to worry about on the floor. You can see it's helped me and Draymond, but I think overall it's helped everybody else more because he makes guys around him better. And he does it really naturally,” Curry added.

Warriors Trending Up with Butler’s Leadership

With Jimmy Butler’s championship mentality, the Warriors are back in contention. His ability to do the little things—defend elite players, facilitate offense, and provide veteran leadership—has brought renewed energy to Golden State.

As the season progresses, Butler’s impact could be the key to another deep playoff run for the Warriors. If the early results are any indication, this trade might go down as one of the best midseason moves in recent history.

Stay tuned for more NBA trade news, Warriors updates, and playoff race analysis!