In a candid interview with @malika_andrews, Draymond Green reflected on the Golden State Warriors’ triumphant journey to the NBA Finals after acquiring Jimmy Butler midseason, a move that many didn’t fully understand at the time. But for Green, it was an obvious decision that would pay off in a major way, and he knew right away the team would secure another title.
“When we made the trade for Jimmy, I already knew,” Green said with confidence. “I didn’t need to see him on the court for five minutes to know. That man has the mindset of a champion. When you add someone like him to a locker room full of guys with rings already, it’s only going to take us up another level.”
Draymond’s words were rooted in a deep belief in the kind of player Butler is—someone who doesn’t just bring skill to the table but an unwavering mentality that can turn the tides in big moments. Known for his defensive tenacity and leadership, Green saw Butler’s grit and intensity as the missing piece that could push the Warriors back into championship contention.
At the time of the trade, Golden State was facing stiff competition from the Western Conference’s elite teams and still trying to find its rhythm after battling injuries. The Warriors needed something extra to get back to their former glory, and Jimmy Butler’s arrival proved to be that spark.
“Jimmy doesn’t just play hard; he plays right,” Green explained. “He doesn’t care about the spotlight or the accolades. He’s the kind of guy who thrives in chaos, in high-stakes moments. That’s exactly what we needed, and I knew that he’d bring that edge to every game.”
Indeed, Butler’s arrival brought a much-needed toughness to the Warriors’ squad. While the Warriors were already known for their dynamic offense, Butler’s defensive prowess, leadership on and off the court, and clutch performances gave them a new identity. The pairing of Green and Butler on the defensive end gave opponents nightmares, and Butler quickly became the go-to guy for tough, gritty plays when the game was on the line.
Draymond credits Butler for pushing him and his teammates to take their games to another level, especially during the playoffs. As the Warriors battled through tough matchups and navigated the intensity of the postseason, Green noted how Butler’s unwavering focus and ability to stay calm under pressure was a game-changer.
“You need someone who doesn’t back down, someone who embraces the fight. That’s Jimmy,” Green said. “We’d been through battles before, but Jimmy gave us that extra toughness. And when it’s time for a big stop or a clutch bucket, he’s the guy you want.”
That mentality carried over to the NBA Finals, where the Warriors faced off against the Eastern Conference powerhouse, the Boston Celtics. Butler’s fearless play in key moments helped propel Golden State to their fourth championship in five years, and his impact was undeniable.
As the Warriors celebrated their victory, Draymond Green looked back at the trade and the bond he had formed with Butler.
“I knew from the moment he came here that we were winning this championship,” Green said with a smile. “Jimmy doesn’t just want to win—he demands it. And that kind of mentality is contagious.”
For Draymond, the addition of Jimmy Butler was more than just a game-changing move—it was the piece that completed the Warriors’ championship puzzle.
