Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler is expected to return from his torn ACL injury by January or February next season, according to ESPN NBA insider Anthony Slater. This news arrives as the Warriors look to rebound from a tough stretch, having lost four of their last five games including a 115-110 defeat to the LA Clippers on April 13, 2026. NY Post Sports first reported the story.
What is the latest on Jimmy Butler's recovery?
Anthony Slater wrote that Butler has been slowly increasing his on-court work while traveling this summer. League sources told Slater that recent strength tests on Butler's right knee have shown notable progress. However, the ESPN insider also reported that Butler still has a way to go. He's currently expected to be limited to individual court and strength work for the foreseeable future.
Butler suffered the injury last season in a game against the Miami Heat. The Warriors won that contest 135-112. Butler was playing well, scoring 17 points with 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals in just 21 minutes. His night ended around the 7:41 mark of the third quarter when he crashed into Miami's Davion Mitchell and fell awkwardly.
Why does this matter for the Golden State Warriors?
The Warriors acquired Butler from the Miami Heat at the 2025 NBA trade deadline. The move was an aggressive push to win another championship with Steph Curry. So far, the duo has only shared the court for 60 games together, largely due to injuries. Butler's absence was felt last season when the Warriors were eliminated in five games by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round of the 2025 playoffs.
Getting Butler back is vital for a team needing a spark. Their recent form shows one win and four losses in their last five outings. You can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page. His two-way play, scoring, and defense on the perimeter could help stabilize a roster searching for consistency.
What are the next steps for Butler and the Warriors?
Slater noted there will be plenty of checkpoints Butler needs to meet before he plays in an NBA game again. The Warriors' lead medical decision-maker, Rick Celebrini, is known for a cautious approach. This suggests the team won't rush their star forward back before he's fully ready.
A January return would be roughly one year after he originally tore his ACL. The Warriors will likely manage his minutes carefully upon his return. Integrating him into the lineup alongside Curry will be a primary focus for the coaching staff as they aim to climb the standings. His recovery timeline gives the team a clear target for when their roster might be at full strength for a potential playoff push.
