[Fridell and Thompson] The Golden State Warriors have made it clear to Jimmy Butler, the 36 year-old forward coming off an ACL tear who is eligible for an extension this Summer, that he is indeed a part of their future plans.
Butler believes he will return at some point next season but doesn’t know exactly when. Since before February’s trade deadline, the Warriors, according to a league source, have made it clear to Butler that he is part of their plans. But as the summer plays out, that will likely be tested as the Warriors try to improve their roster. Are they willing to wait for Butler’s rehab? Do they trust he will be close to the same player whenever he returns?
Butler, who will be 37 in September, has stated that he has enjoyed his short time in the Warriors’ culture. They allow Butler to be himself and trust he will do the work behind the scenes.
But in his previous stops around the league, many of his blowups centered around money and contracts. In Butler’s mind, respect is displayed with a new deal. The Warriors gave him a fresh max extension when they traded for him. Will he be loyal to the organization now if it stands by him throughout his rehab?