Jimmy Butler Shines in Warriors Debut, Leads Comeback Win Over Bulls

Jimmy Butler wasted no time making an impact in his Golden State Warriors debut, leading the team to a 132-111 comeback win over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. Despite not participating in a practice or shootaround, Butler looked right at home, scoring 25 points while showcasing his signature toughness, playmaking, and leadership.

A Strong Start Despite Limited Preparation

Butler was unable to join the Warriors for their morning walkthrough because not all players in the five-team, nine-player trade had completed their physicals. That meant head coach Steve Kerr could only give him a crash course on three offensive plays and some new terminology.

Still, Butler made an immediate difference, shooting 7-of-12 from the field and getting to the free-throw line 13 times, making 11. His 25 points were the most in a Warriors debut since Kevin Durant in 2016.

Kerr, Green, and Curry Praise Butler’s Impact

Head coach Steve Kerr emphasized how Butler’s presence changes the game.

“I'm most impressed with his passing,” Kerr said. “His passing changes everything... His skill, his strength, his ability to get to the free-throw line. But beyond that, he’s a lion—he’s a force.”

The Warriors (26-26) had trailed by 24 points in the third quarter, but Butler’s aggressive play and Stephen Curry’s scoring explosion (22 points in the final 7:54 of the quarter) sparked a 38-10 run that turned the game around.

Draymond Green noted the difference Butler made:

“At no point was it ever like, ‘Ah, body language dropping.’ That’s what we’ve seen a lot this year when we get down. But tonight, it was the total opposite. That’s Butler’s presence.”

Green also said Butler helps the Warriors rediscover their championship mentality:

“One million percent. I wouldn't say we have championship swagger yet, but we have championship pedigree. And that swagger is what we’re trying to find again.”

A Fresh Start After Miami Exit

Butler’s arrival in Golden State comes after a tumultuous split with the Miami Heat, where suspensions kept him out for extended periods. Saturday’s game marked just his sixth appearance since December 20, and he admitted he still needs to improve his conditioning.

“Tired. Extremely tired,” Butler said. “Not that I wanted a month off, but I’ll get it back. It’s only a matter of time.”

Even so, Butler dominated the fourth quarter, scoring 10 points in four minutes to help seal the win before checking out. Kerr said Butler’s ability to close games is something the Warriors desperately need.

“Everybody on the roster, everybody on the coaching staff was telling me to be myself. And that’s what I did,” Butler said.

A Meaningful Debut in Chicago

Beyond the game, Butler’s debut carried deep personal significance. He chose to wear No. 10 in honor of Brazilian soccer star Neymar, and his jersey now reads "Butler III"—a tribute to his late father, who passed away exactly one year ago.

“This is where I began my career,” Butler said about playing in Chicago. “My father passed a year ago today. And it’s also the birthday of a very, very good friend of mine.

Life comes full circle.”

With Butler now in the mix, the Warriors hope his tenacity and leadership can push them back into contention in the Western Conference.