Just a few months removed from making a major change to their roster at the trade deadline, the Golden State Warriors find themselves fighting for a spot in the playoffs. As they gear up for another run in the Play-In Tournament, one former champion praised their blockbuster addition.
Following a months-long off-court saga with the Miami Heat, Jimmy Butler finally found himself with a change of scenery at the deadline. He was shipped to the Warriors to team up with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green as the franchise looks to remain competitive as their dynasty comes to a close. While there were some skeptics about how the All-Star forward would fit, he’s looked great so far. Moreover, Butler’s ability to elevate his game when the stakes are at their highest is undeniable. Recently Butler’s former teammate and three-time NBA champion, Udonis Haslem commented on Butler’s impact ahead of the playoffs. Let’s dive into Haslem’s comments on Butler and the Warriors.
Former NBA Champion Praises Warriors Star Ahead of Playoff Run
After coming up short in their regular-season finale against the LA Clippers, the Warriors now have to work their way through the Play-In Tournament. They’re set to face off against the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday, with the winner securing the seventh seed and facing the Houston Rockets in round one. In the past, the Warriors have had their struggles when it comes to the Play-In. Notably, the Warriors have gone 0-3 in the Play-In. However, with Butler in the mix, there is a notable difference this time.
During Monday’s edition of NBA Today on ESPN, Udonis Haslem shared his thoughts on Butler and the Warriors as they prepare for their Play-In matchup. As Butler’s former teammate, Haslem opened up on his history of coming up big in do-or-die situations.
“Jimmy Butler to me, raises his game in the playoffs because whatever he did in the regular season, he’s going to look at that film,” Haslem said. “He’s an ultimate competitor. When his back against the wall, that’s when you see the best version of Jimmy Butler.”
“When his back is against the wall, that’s when you see the best version of Jimmy Butler.”@ThisIsUD says Jimmy Butler is “one of the smartest players” that he’s ever been around. 💪 pic.twitter.com/tH9nm6iuQx
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 14, 2025
Since joining the Warriors in February, Butler has averaged 17.9 PPG, 5.5 RPG, and 5.9 APG across 30 matchups. Haslem knows firsthand how dominant Jimmy can be in must-win games. With so much on the line, Golden State will need increased production from Butler to fulfill their championship aspirations.
Jimmy Butler Has a Proven Track Record in the Postseason
This time of year is why the Warriors paid such a steep price to go out and acquire Butler. Throughout his career, he’s had a proven track record of raising his level of play in the postseason. The Play-In is no different, which could result in Golden State relying on him heavily against the Grizzlies. Additionally, Butler takes a significant burden off Curry.
We are not far removed from Butler leading the Miami Heat on a Cinderella NBA Finals run in 2023. Before pulling off a series of upsets, they punched their ticket for the playoffs through the Play-In. Butler knows how things can unfold going this route and will surely bring his A game against Memphis.
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