Jimmy Butler successfully undergoes knee surgery, season over for Warriors star
NBA — Jimmy Butler underwent successful ACL surgery Monday in Los Angeles and will miss the rest of the season, with his return for 2026–27 also in doubt for the Golden State Warriors.
Photo Credit : © D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images
The Golden State Warriors announced that Jimmy Butler successfully underwent surgery Monday morning to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. The operation was performed in Los Angeles, with several members of the Warriors organization in attendance.
Butler was injured on January 19 during a victory against the Miami Heat. The 36-year-old forward collapsed after a collision with Davion Mitchell in the third quarter, his knee giving way upon landing. He had to leave the court supported by teammates Gary Payton II and Buddy Hield, unable to put weight on his injured leg.
Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III, who suffered a torn right anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) on January 19 against the Miami Heat, underwent successful surgery earlier today in Los Angeles: pic.twitter.com/GaMshWH71t
— Warriors PR (@WarriorsPR) February 10, 2026
An absence that compromises the Warriors’ ambitions
According to the official announcement, Butler « will be out for the remainder of the 2025-2026 season and will immediately begin his rehabilitation. He is expected to make a full recovery and an update on his progress will be provided at the start of next season. » This wording suggests the player likely won’t return before mid-2026-2027 campaign.
Butler’s absence represents a major blow for the Warriors, who had regained optimism with 12 wins in 16 games with him present this season. The former Heat player was averaging 20.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.4 steals in 38 games, with impressive shooting percentages of 51.9% from the field and 37.6% from 3-point range.
General manager Mike Dunleavy confirmed he is not considering trading Butler and anticipates his return next season. « I think he has a playing style that can last a long time with his skills, physical condition and understanding of the game », Dunleavy stated. « My vision for him is that he comes back at some point between now and this time next year. »
Acquired in a trade with Miami in 2025, Butler had helped the Warriors to a 23-8 record late last season and reach the second round of the playoffs. With Stephen Curry also sidelined with a knee injury since January 30, the Warriors (8th in the West) see their playoff chances seriously compromised. There remains one season and $56.8 million on Butler’s contract.
With a background in sports management, Nicolas Flamecourt covers NBA news with a particular passion for the North American league, which he has been following for several years. He also covers the NCAA, including news and scouting of future prospects, and regularly conducts interviews with French players as well as players competing in Europe.
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