Jimmy Butler’s debut preseason with the Golden State Warriors might not happen right away, but there is no concern from the team regarding his recent ankle injury. The six-time All-Star tweaked his ankle during training camp and has since missed a pair of practices.
Head coach Steve Kerr told reporters that Butler’s status remains uncertain for the Warriors’ preseason opener against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center. Kerr described Butler as a “question mark,” though he emphasized that the team’s medical staff will make the final call on his availability.
“Jimmy didn’t practice the last couple of days as he nurses a sprained ankle,” Kerr said. “The Warriors aren’t concerned, but he’s questionable for tomorrow’s game.”
The Warriors plan to be careful with all of their veterans throughout the preseason. This means Butler, Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Al Horford. Kerr said none of the core players will exceed about 15 to 18 minutes in the opener. That's a plan designed to prioritize long-term health over exhibition performance.
Steve Kerr, Warriors take cautious approach to veteran health
Golden State is still managing a handful of other injuries. Center Trayce Jackson-Davis, who had his right thumb taped during practice, is also listed as questionable, though he assured reporters that it was only a precaution. De’Anthony Melton continues to rehab from ACL surgery and will be sidelined for the entire preseason. Rookie forward Alex Toohey remains out with an ankle issue that has hampered him since training camp.
Butler’s injury is minor. But it highlights a larger challenge facing the Warriors as they prepare for the regular season. With an aging core and a roster heavily dependent on the health of its stars, even small setbacks draw extra attention.
Still, the Golden State Warriors are optimistic about the season ahead. Butler averaged 17.9 points, 5.9 assists, and 5.5 rebounds in 30 games after arriving from Miami last year. He brought leadership and toughness that the team had lacked. For now, his ankle injury appears to be nothing more than a brief pause before the Warriors’ newest star joins the lineup.
