Golden State Warriors veteran Jimmy Butler suffered a torn ACL injury during a matchup against his former Miami Heat team in January. Butler is now in the midst of an extensive rehab process as he prepares for his 16th NBA season and second full campaign with the Warriors franchise. On Tuesday, ESPN NBA insider Anthony Slater revealed an "optimistic" return timeline of January or February for Butler this coming NBA season.
Slater says the recent strength tests performed on Butler's knee have shown "notable progress." "He is expected to be limited to individual court and strength work when training camp opens in a month, league sources said, with the 36-year-old forward needing more time to be cleared for a full contact setting," Slater reports. "A return in January or February can be considered an optimistic target, but there are plenty of checkpoints ahead before getting that clearance." Earlier this summer, Butler told ESPN that he expects to be a "top player" when he returns to the court for the Warriors in 2026-27. "I'm right back to who I've always been," Butler said.
"Probably better if we was to really talk about it. I know I'm still going to be a top player whenever I get back. I have a couple good years left in me, and we're going to ride it until the wheels fall off." The Warriors will open up their 2026-27 season with a matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers on Oct. 21.
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