Steve Kerr Praises Jimmy Butler Playoff Impact, Cites Spoelstra Endorsement

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has praised Jimmy Butler's impact since joining the team in the 2024-25 season, comparing his playoff role to a young LeBron James and likening his basketball intellect and maturity to Andre Iguodala. Despite concerns about Butler's fit following his troubled exit from the Miami Heat, Kerr was reassured by Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, who predicted Butler would be great for the Warriors, a prediction Kerr says was validated within days of Butler's arrival. Butler helped transform the Warriors' record from 25-26 to 49-34, though the team exited in the second playoff round, with Kerr noting that Butler’s scoring was hindered by lack of spacing due to teammate Steph Curry’s injury. Kerr highlighted Butler's strong leadership, smart playmaking, and positive locker room presence, describing him as a subtle superstar who rarely turns the ball over and prioritizes passing. Butler's arrival infused renewed energy and cohesion into the team, contrasting with the Heat’s struggles after his departure. Overall, Kerr emphasized that Butler was an ideal teammate and a model professional during his time with Golden State.