Warriors Acquire Six-Time All-Star in Blockbuster Trade

After trade rumors swirling around the league from Kevin Durant to Zach LaVine to Nikola Vučević, the Golden State Warriors have officially found their star to pair with Stephen Curry, trading for the Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler in a four-team deal. The cost for the veteran was Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, and a protected first-round pick, all of whom are going to the Heat. Both Dennis Schröder and Lindy Waters III are also part of this deal, but they are heading to the Detroit Pistons. The Warriors jumped headfirst into the deadline with hopes that Butler can take them to the next level.

Jimmy Butler’s name had been mentioned among the players that the Warriors were targeting, but his unwillingness to sign an extension had slowed the process. The cost to trade for Butler simply would not be worth it if he did not extend. They looked into Kevin Durant, but trade talks broke down after Durant expressed not wanting to return. Eventually, Butler warmed up to the idea of staying longer in the Bay Area, agreeing to a two-year, $121 million extension.

Truthfully, the league is still recovering from the Luka Dončić trade that shocked anyone with a beating heart and working brain. Unlike Dončić, who wanted to be in Dallas, Butler has not hidden his growing distaste for the Magic City. Butler is ready for a fresh start, and the Warriors are ready for a new face to help them make their way back into the NBA Finals during Stephen Curry’s remaining years. The countless jersey swaps can finally be put to rest, as Butler will be in blue and gold soon enough.