Jimmy Butler isn’t just focused on his own numbers — he’s focused on setting up the Warriors’ next generation to win.
After Golden State’s 98-79 win against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday at Chase Center, the 36-year-old NBA veteran reflected on mentoring the Warriors’ younger players, praising their development and maturity.
“Us older guys, I guess, are on our way out of the league, but these new young guys, they’ve got potential to be great for a very long time,” Butler told reporters.
Now in his 15th NBA season, Butler understands the value of passing down what he has learned to the next wave of Warriors.
“I think it’s just our job to be really good vets to them like we’ve had in the past,” Butler added. “Set them up for success, give them all the confidence in the world knowing that some of these key role players are going to be the reason that we’ll win a championship.”
Butler has made it clear that his leadership extends beyond his own performance — he wants to elevate those around him.
“Whatever you’re doing out there, it just needs to add up to winning,” Butler explained. “Whether you’re scoring 50 or getting 30 assists — none of it matters if you’re not winning.”
One player taking those lessons to heart is 23-year-old Jonathan Kuminga, whose growth hasn’t gone unnoticed by Butler.
“You don’t ever want to come back the exact same player,” Butler noted. “You work on your stuff in the offseason, but when you’re on the floor, are you winning your minutes? I think as of late, [Kuminga’s] been doing it.”
Kuminga finished Tuesday’s game with nine points, five rebounds and one assist, another solid outing for the young forward.
Butler’s example is clear: win your minutes, lift your teammates and the rest will follow.
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