The Golden State Warriors had a rough season in 2023-24, finishing 46-36 and missing the playoffs after a play-in loss to the Sacramento Kings. Despite Stephen Curry averaging 26.4 points per game this season, the Warriors were not competitive, ranking only 18th in defense and relying too heavily on Curry to carry the offense.
Fortunately for them, there may be a player who may salvage their dynasty, and his name is Jimmy Butler. Butler’s future in Miami is uncertain as a result of contract negotiations and Pat Riley’s controversial remarks about the star player. If there is one guy who could help the Warriors become relevant, it is Jimmy Butler.
We advocated a blockbuster trade for Butler months ago, not realizing how far the Warriors would fall as the season went on. With the NBA Finals and offseason just around the corner, here’s how a Warriors trade for Jimmy Butler may look.
Trade Package
Golden State Warriors Receive: Jimmy Butler.
Miami Heat gets Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Gary Payton II (accepts $9.1 million player option).
This move will restore the Warriors’ relevance in the Western Conference and could make them the favorites to win the 2025 title, but let’s go deeper into the agreement.
Golden State Warriors Form a New Big Four.
The arrival of Jimmy Butler will revive the Golden State Warriors’ championship hopes by constructing a new formidable Big Four alongside Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson (17.9 PPG on 38.7% 3-point FG), and Draymond Green (8.6 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 6.0 APG). This dynamic quartet would combine great scoring, strong defense, and veteran leadership, resulting in a balanced and resilient team.
Butler’s versatility and two-way ability would compliment Curry’s shooting, Thompson’s perimeter defense, and Green’s playmaking, allowing the Warriors to capitalize on matchups and play their distinctive fast-paced, small-ball style.
By bringing in Butler (20.8 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 5.0 APG), the Warriors would not only strengthen their present core but also add a new competitive edge, potentially rejuvenating their dynasty and establishing them as strong candidates for the 2025 NBA championship.
The combination of these four seasoned talents, each with a proven track record in high-pressure situations, would make Golden State a formidable opponent, reigniting the championship spirit that has defined the organization in recent years. It never hurts to add toughness and another top-tier on-ball defender to a championship team.
Miami Heat retool without having to pay Butler a maximum contract.
Pat Riley and the Miami Heat have serious reservations about signing a max contract with the 34-year-old Jimmy Butler, especially after his injury-plagued season, which resulted in him missing the playoffs entirely. By dealing Butler, the Heat will be able to retool their squad around the younger core of Bam Adebayo (26) and Tyler Herro (24), who have already demonstrated potential as foundational players.
This decision would provide Miami greater financial freedom and the potential to create a more sustainable future. Adebayo’s defensive skills and versatility, paired with Herro’s scoring abilities and playmaking, create a formidable combo that can be bolstered by wise acquisitions and the development of young talent.
This retooling strategy allows the Heat to remain competitive while avoiding the potential dangers of an aging star’s large contract, preserving their dominance in the Eastern Conference for years to come.
A New Force in the Western Conference for the Next Two Seasons.
The Golden State Warriors, with the arrival of Jimmy Butler, now have a key two-year window to fulfill their championship potential. Butler, who is approaching 35, will join a core that includes Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, all of whom will be 35 next season. This tight schedule mandates an all-in effort, with the goal of securing at least one more title and cementing Curry, Thompson, and Green’s status in NBA history as five-time champions.
The Warriors have two options: go all in to win at least one more title, or blow apart the squad by allowing Klay Thompson leave in free agency and trading Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Going for Butler meets the first requirement because it allows the Warriors to form a new Big Four that will almost surely win at least one NBA championship.
While the Warriors strive for quick success, the Miami Heat, free of the financial burden of Butler’s prospective max contract, can methodically retool and focus on creating a younger, more sustainable roster around Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro, ensuring their league-wide competitiveness.
