Warriors’ Mike Dunleavy Jr. says he doesn’t foresee Jimmy Butler trade

Mike Dunleavy Jr. does not sound like a general manager preparing to sell low.

Speaking before Tuesday’s game against Toronto, the Warriors’ top executive said he does not envision trading Jimmy Butler despite the season-ending torn ACL that Butler suffered earlier this week.

Instead, Dunleavy indicated that his expectation is for Butler to return during the 2026-27 season and provide a boost similar to the one he gave the team upon his arrival last year, per ESPN’s Anthony Slater.

Dunleavy pointed to Butler’s durability and style of play, suggesting those traits should allow him to remain effective as he returns from the injury. He added that he was “crushed” for Butler personally and acknowledged it is difficult to know how the injury will affect the Warriors’ approach ahead of the February 5 trade deadline, according to The Athletic’s Nick Friedell.

“We hate it for him but the beat goes on,” Dunleavy said.

Dunleavy was also candid when asked about Jonathan Kuminga, who requested a trade earlier this month. While confirming he is aware of Kuminga’s desire for a move, Dunleavy noted that trade requests require interest on both sides.

“In terms of demands, when there’s a demand, there needs to be a demand on the market,” he said.