To say that Jimmy Butler has been a difference-maker for the Golden State Warriors since his mid-season blockbuster trade would be an understatement. The fact that they’ve gone 7-1 in the eight games Butler has played in is a clear testament to this fact.
Unfortunately, Butler missed his first game for the Warriors on Saturday. The six-time All-Star was forced to it out against the Philadelphia 76ers due to back spasms, and it is perhaps no coincidence that Golden State ended up losing, 126-119.
The good news for Warriors fans is that Butler now appears to be in line to return to the lineup after missing just one contest. This is after the Warriors provided an important update on the 35-year-old forward via Sunday’s injury report.
Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III (10).
Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
Butler has now been upgraded to probable to play on Monday when the Warriors face the Charlotte Hornets. There is no guarantee that the five-time All-NBA forward will be able to suit up in Charlotte, but the mere fact that he has been tagged as probable is a positive development for Golden State.
Jonathan Kuminga remains out for the Warriors as he continues to recover from a right ankle sprain, while the Hornets have listed Miles Bridges and Seth Curry as probable to play.
The Warriors will be looking to improve on their 32-28 record (seventh in the Western Conference) when they return to action on Monday.