Jimmy Butler gives unrealistic take on Warriors' championship window

Could the Golden State Warriors contend past Stephen Curry’s fortieth birthday?

Following the Warriors’ season-ending 121-110 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals on Wednesday, forward Jimmy Butler delivered a hopeful (and perhaps unrealistic) message about Golden State’s championship window. 

Butler expressed confidence in the team’s future, suggesting their window extends beyond the presumed two-year timeline tied to the expiring contracts of himself, Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green.

“If we win some, it could be longer than (two years),” Butler said, per The Athletic’s Anthony Slater.

“Because I still think we have a lot of great basketball ahead of us. I don’t think this age thing is anything with the way we take care of our bodies.”

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Butler clearly believes that the Warriors’ core, despite being in their mid-to-late 30s, can defy age-related concerns and continue to contend.

Butler’s optimism comes despite a challenging series against the Timberwolves, where the absence of Curry, sidelined by a hamstring strain since Game 1, exposed the team’s vulnerabilities. Butler averaged 20.2 points but struggled with efficiency, shooting 43% and posting a minus-37 plus-minus.

Yet, Butler’s focus remained on the bigger picture, emphasizing Golden State’s potential for excellence in 2025-26 and beyond.

The Warriors’ acquisition of Butler at the trade deadline revitalized a 25-26 squad, leading to a 23-8 finish and the NBA’s top defensive rating over that stretch. His integration with Curry and Green showcased a complementary dynamic.

While the loss to a surging Wolves team led by Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle stung, Butler’s comments signal a commitment to his new team.

Of course, Butler’s confidence hinges on the trio’s health and the front office’s roster decisions. With players like Jonathan Kuminga and Kevon Looney facing uncertain futures, it’ll be interesting to see how Golden State’s GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. handles the summer.

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