Following a confirmation that Jimmy Butler unfortunately tore his ACL, fans of the Golden State Warriors are starved of hope. Golden State needed Butler as the second option to Stephen Curry, and with him out for the season, their unique resort is Kawhi Leonard of the LA Clippers.
Breaking: Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler has suffered a season-ending torn right ACL, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/WIbPQqubfJ
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 20, 2026
Leonard and Butler were drafted 15 picks apart, and ever since they stepped onto an NBA court, the two have been fierce competitors. They each played a role in changing the game as two-way players, and this season, both had a chance to make the all-star team.
Additionally, Leonard, in 2020-21, was where Butler is currently: having to restart from scratch with a torn ACL, feeling like they would not be there to show up for their team when needed most.
But Leonard’s story should serve as a source of optimism. He was patient, reluctant towards his doctors, and did not cut corners in the process. Just like that, when he returned in 2022-23, the Clippers climbed right back into championship contention.
The Golden State Warriors’ season is still alive
The LA Clippers and Kawhi Leonard could answer every question fans of the Golden State Warriors have regarding Jimmy Butler, yet the theme of the two-time champion’s comeback was trust from the front office. This went a ridiculously long way, as years later, Leonard is still the face of the franchise, fighting to win it all.
Furthermore, as the Clippers did with Paul George, the Warriors have a legitimate option in Stephen Curry, capable of carrying the load. He is having a miraculous season, averaging 27.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.7 rebounds, shooting 47.0% from the field and 38.9% from beyond the arc.
Yesterday, Curry and the Warriors organization were informed that he would be starting in the 2026 All-Star Game. This shows that he has not fallen off and is one of the best players in the world.
Having Curry alone is a luxury, but the Warriors also have the trade deadline. Temporary second-option candidates like DeMar DeRozan exist, who can fill in for Butler and help the four-time champion compete for a deep playoff run.
That said, the Warriors and their fanbase must glance at Leonard’s timeline with the Clippers to be reminded that Butler will be back, better than ever. Yet, for now, Golden State is in the play-in mix, with a solid chance to improve in the Western Conference led by the greatest three-point shooter in league history.