The Golden State Warriors have never been shy about swinging big. And now, with Giannis Antetokounmpo potentially on the trade block, they’re staring at another franchise-altering opportunity.
But there’s a catch - and it’s a big one. Any realistic path to landing the two-time MVP likely runs through Jimmy Butler, and right now, Butler’s not going anywhere.
Butler, who joined the Warriors in the offseason, was expected to be a cornerstone alongside Stephen Curry for a team trying to squeeze one more title run out of its aging core. But a torn ACL earlier this month ended his 2025-26 season prematurely and threw a wrench into Golden State’s short- and long-term plans. Not only is Butler sidelined, but his $54 million salary - a key piece in any blockbuster trade - is now a complicated asset.
Still, the Warriors have reportedly made it clear: they’re not ready to move on from Butler.
Despite the buzz surrounding Giannis’ availability, Golden State continues to operate under the belief that Butler will return next season and be a central part of their future. According to team sources, the front office is staying committed to the Butler-Curry pairing, even with Antetokounmpo potentially within reach.
That’s a bold stance, considering the stakes. Giannis isn’t just a superstar - he’s a franchise shifter.
And with the Bucks now more open than ever to exploring trade options, the Warriors are staring down a narrow window. Milwaukee’s front office isn’t rushing to move him by the upcoming trade deadline, but the longer they wait, the higher the asking price could climb.
Holding out for the offseason could spark a full-scale bidding war, and Golden State might not want to be caught in that crossfire.
If the Warriors want to make a serious play for Giannis now, they’ll have to go all-in - and that likely means parting with Butler, Jonathan Kuminga, four first-round picks, and two pick swaps. That’s the kind of package that clears the table and forces Milwaukee to listen.
But without Butler in the deal, the math gets tricky. His salary is essential for matching Giannis’ contract, and his on-court production - 20 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.4 steals per game on 51.9% shooting in 38 games this season - made him one of the Warriors’ most reliable two-way players before the injury.
Of course, Giannis isn’t at full strength either. He’s dealing with a calf strain that has him sidelined after last week’s loss to the Nuggets.
But even in a shortened season, he’s been dominant: 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game on a blistering 64.5% shooting. He’s still very much in his prime, and if he’s truly available, teams across the league will be lining up.
That’s what makes the Warriors’ position so fascinating. They’re trying to thread a nearly impossible needle - chasing a generational talent while holding onto a core that’s both aging and injured.
Curry, now 37, is still capable of magic, but the clock is ticking. The Warriors aren’t just managing assets; they’re managing legacy.
So here’s the crossroads: do they stay loyal to the Butler-Curry vision and hope for a healthy return next season? Or do they pivot, leverage Butler’s contract and future picks, and go all-in for Giannis - even if it means breaking up the current foundation?
The front office has a few days left to decide. The deadline is looming, and so is the opportunity.