Butler, who was traded from the Miami Heat to Golden State before the 2025 NBA trade deadline, turned the ball over on an offensive foul with 18 seconds remaining, leading to two Max Christie free throws and sealing the Dubs’ fate.

Wednesday's trade might have been a backup plan for both parties, and an expensive one. But Golden State thinks the risk could work.

Butler had 25 points and four assists in his first game since a trade-deadline deal from Miami following a messy split with the Heat, helping the Warriors beat the Bulls 132-111 on Saturday night. “He's a lion out there,” coach Steve Kerr said. It was an emotional night for Butler.