Warriors Surge After Butler’s Arrival, Reviving Championship Aspirations

SAN FRANCISCO — The Golden State Warriors are finding their stride following the acquisition of Jimmy Butler, boasting a 5-1 record and renewed energy as they aim for a playoff berth. After a shaky start to the season, the Warriors showcased their potential with a 126-102 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday.

Steph Curry highlighted the Warriors’ surge with a signature celebration after a pivotal three-pointer, dismissing early-game concerns about doing so. “The Night-Night stuff is never really predictable,” Curry remarked. “It’s just whenever I’m feeling it. And you gotta be good to do it.” This confidence marks a shift from previous press conferences filled with bleak reflections following team losses.

The transformation is largely attributed to Butler’s presence, which, according to Warriors coach Steve Kerr, has injected much-needed swagger into the team. “One hundred percent, Jimmy gives us some swagger,” Kerr stated, remarking on the impact Butler has had since joining the squad.

Draymond Green, who previously predicted the Warriors would return to championship form, affirmed how critical Butler’s addition has been, citing the absence of a vital piece in the team’s dynamic prior to the trade. Green expressed, “This team all year has been kind of like, ‘Man, we’re right there, but can’t quite get over the hump.’ The reason was because there was a missing piece. That piece isn’t missing anymore. That piece is him.” Butler’s two-year, $112 million extension now solidifies his role with the franchise through the 2027 season.

This season, the Warriors have focused on improving their defensive efforts, which have shown statistically following Butler’s arrival. The team boasts the sixth-best defensive rating and offensive efficiency since he debuted, significantly improving from their previous standings of 10th and 18th, respectively. The Warriors’ net rating has also surged from 16th to fifth since Butler joined the lineup.

Butler’s own enthusiasm is apparent as he integrates with the team, proclaiming he feels wanted for the first time in years. “Honestly — in the most humble way possible — I’m a good fit everywhere,” Butler asserted, adding that the positive energy within the locker room has been a game changer.

The Warriors’ success has not only revived Curry and Green but has also amplified performances from the bench players, increasing competitiveness even during non-Curry minutes. For instance, rookies like Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moody are finding their rhythm within the new team dynamic.

Following the win against Dallas, Butler’s leadership was reflected in the energy shift for the entire roster. Crews dominated the minutes Curry sat on the bench, showcasing the depth of talent and confidence that Butler’s arrival has instilled.

With a keen understanding of his role amidst the changes, Butler emphasized that everyone in the locker room is prepared to win games, stating, “If everybody thinks that you can do something, then you can do it. We really know that every time we take the floor, we should win.” With Butler’s talent and leadership, the Warriors look primed to continue their upward trajectory as the postseason approaches.