Jimmy Butler Reveals NBA Retirement Plan, Talks Warriors Future amid Knee Injury Rehab

Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler is coming to terms with his NBA mortality as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL.

"I'm right back to who I've always been," he said to ESPN's Anthony Slater. "Probably better if we was to really talk about it. I know I'm still going to be a top player whenever I get back. I have a couple good years left in me, and we're going to ride it until the wheels fall off."

The six-time All-Star added he wants to wrap up his career in the Bay Area.

"End is a bad word, but this is where I want to be done," he told Slater. "Retire here. This organization is top-tier. It's the best. Keep it a buck. It's the best. You're playing with one of the greatest players ever. I'm grateful to be able to witness this. I want to be able to do my part, get this organization back on top where we belong."

Butler will be 37 by the time the 2026-27 season tips off. His retirement from basketball isn't imminent, but he's certainly closer to the end than he is to the beginning.

His longtime intensity on the court could mean he's not a star who ages gracefully, either, and the torn ACL won't help in that regard.

Especially when he's under contract for only one more season, ending his career on the Warriors could require some concessions on Butler's end.

The organization has been pragmatic with stars who had much deeper connections to the team and its fanbase. Klay Thompson left as a free agent in 2024, and Draymond Green has been at the center of trade rumors in an effort to strengthen the roster.

For all intents and purposes, Stephen Curry is the only player who's truly untouchable, and Butler should keep that in mind when the time comes for he and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. to begin serious conversations over a new contract.

In the past, financial disputes have preceded tense exits from Butler's old teams. He has to know that fulfilling his retirement wish will require taking a big pay cut from the $56.8 million he'll make next year.