Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr confirmed the team had a strong interest in acquiring Kevin Durant, but ultimately completed a trade for Jimmy Butler after negotiations with the Suns collapsed, during his appearance on Tuesday’s Tom Tolbert Show. This revelation about the Warriors’ trade priorities has sparked varied reactions among fans, especially given Butler’s mixed performance in the playoffs.

Warriors’ Pursuit of Kevin Durant and Shift to Jimmy Butler

Steve Kerr explained that Golden State initially aimed to bring in Kevin Durant, but the trade did not materialize. Afterward, the team pivoted to Jimmy Butler, with Warriors President of Basketball Operations Mike making the call to acquire him. Kerr recalled,

“I think it’s well documented that we were trying to get Kevin Durant, but that didn’t happen. And after that, Mike calls me and says ‘I think we’re going to trade for Jimmy Butler, I’m going to vouch for him. Guy’s a gamer, hell of a player, and I think that’s gonna work.’ And I said, ‘Great, let’s do it.’ We needed a change.”

—Steve Kerr, Head Coach

Following Kerr’s comments, fans on social media reacted strongly, with some interpreting his statement as the team never wanting Butler. Discussions on X (formerly Twitter) questioned the front office’s decisions and Kerr’s support for acquiring an older player rather than pursuing other options.

Fan Reactions Express Doubts over Butler Trade

Among the fan responses, some expressed skepticism about the team’s direction. One questioned the rationale behind trading for veteran players despite the Warriors’ championship aspirations, reflecting unease about the team’s strategic approach. Others debated whether Butler’s presence was a genuine asset or a consolation after failing to land KD.

Jimmy Butler’s Playoff Performance Leaves Fans Unsatisfied

Initially, the Jimmy Butler trade generated excitement, as his addition propelled the Warriors from 11th to sixth place in the Western Conference standings. However, his playoff showing did not meet expectations. Known for elevating his game in high-pressure moments, Butler’s lack of offensive aggression was particularly noted after Steph Curry’s injury in the Western Conference semifinals.

With Curry sidelined by a hamstring strain starting in Game 1, many hoped Butler would take over leadership on offense. Instead, he averaged only 20.2 points across the following four games, and Golden State was eliminated by Minnesota in five contests. Fans grew concerned that Butler did not assume the dominant role needed in Curry’s absence.

Challenges Beyond Butler Hinder Warriors’ Championship Hopes

While Butler did not deliver the expected boost, the team’s struggles extended beyond one player. The Warriors’ overall performance dipped after losing their star guard, underscoring the need for broader improvements throughout the roster. Golden State must address multiple deficiencies to remain competitive and contend for a title in the upcoming season.