The Post-ACL Shift: Moving Jimmy for the Future This trade addresses the devastating reality of Jimmy Butler’s season-ending torn ACL. With Butler out for the remainder of the 2025–26 season and potentially the start of the next, the Warriors are forced to pivot from a "win-now" secondary star to long-term interior stability. While Butler was averaging over 20 points per game before the injury, his age (37 this summer) and recovery timeline make his $54.1 million salary a massive hurdle for a team needing immediate active production.

Why the Warriors do it: They capitalize on Butler’s expiring value to bring in Jaren Jackson Jr. (JJJ), a 26-year-old elite rim protector and "unicorn" big man who stretches the floor. Adding JJJ immediately solves the Warriors' historical need for a versatile, shot-blocking center to pair with Draymond Green. Brandon Clarke provides additional athletic depth in the frontcourt, though he is currently managing a calf injury of his own. This move essentially saves the season by replacing an injured star with two high-impact, healthy (or soon-to-be healthy) frontcourt pieces. Why the

Grizzlies do it: Memphis takes a massive gamble on the future by acquiring two unprotected first-round picks (2026 and 2028). Since they are reportedly looking to clear future cap space to facilitate a massive extension for JJJ, taking on Butler’s contract—which expires after next season—allows them to reset their books. If Butler recovers well, they gain a veteran with deep playoff pedigree to lead their young core in 2027; if not, they have cleared nearly $50M+ in future annual commitments and loaded up on draft capital to rebuild around Ja Morant.