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The Golden State Warriors are facing a troubling situation after Jimmy Butler picked up a season-ending ACL tear on Monday. With his salary now in question, the franchise must decide whether to move it or hold firm for next season, as Stephen Curry's championship window continues to narrow.
Big problem for the Golden State Warriors
On Tuesday, Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy addressed the problem and dropped a clear stance on Butler's future.
“I don’t envision that (trading Butler),” Dunleavy said. “Now that you’ve brought it up, I’d say my vision for him is to give us a boost next year the same way he did last year when he arrived.”
Dunleavy doubled down on that belief moments later, pointing to Butler's impact and longevity despite his age.
“At his age, to have the year he’s had is impressive,” he added. “So I guess my vision for him is him returning at some point between now and this time next year.”
Jimmy Butler was set to help Steph Curry win his fifth NBA title following moving from the Miami Heat last season. However, that has not worked out as aimed. With Butler on the sidelines, Curry is once again without a reliable second scorer as the Warriors languish in eighth place with a 25-20 record.
This has weakened the former NBA Champions' hopes for a title. While Dunleavy has displayed his trust in Butler, it begs the question of what next?
Golden State does have the services of Jonathan Kuminga, but the forward has asked for a trade from the team. Dunleavy discussed this on Tuesday, offering a cold remark.
"When you make a demand, there needs to be a demand on the market," Dunleavy remarked.
Even as the Warriors go on a four-game winning streak and show signs of actual momentum, there is a storm forming in the distance, one they must navigate before the trade deadline.
Mike Dunleavy clarifies the Warriors forward's future
Stephen Curry is back in a familiar position with the Golden State Warriors following Jimmy Butler's injury against the Miami Heat. The All-Star guard is once again managing the load of the team as he remains helpless.
Jonathan Kuminga could serve as a perfect piece in the puzzle, but with the forward unhappy about his playing time in the Bay Area, he remains on the lookout for a new franchise.
Despite his wish to leave, Mike Dunleavy believes there is a future for Kuminga in Golden State.
"I'm disappointed it hasn't worked out better," Dunleavy said. "But it is what it is. ... I know a trade has been requested, but nothing's imminent and things in this league can change in a heartbeat, as they did last night. So he's got to be ready."
While Kuminga came back on the floor against the Raptors on Tuesday, it remains to be seen if he will stay with Golden State past the trade deadline.
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