When will Jimmy Butler make his Warriors debut? Steph Curry's new running mate's potential debut date explored

The NBA community was buzzing on Wednesday as another blockbuster trade shook the league. In a stunning five-team deal, veteran forward Jimmy Butler was traded from the Miami Heat to the Golden State Warriors. To acquire Butler, Steph Curry and the Warriors had to part ways with three key players, reshaping their roster in a bold move.

Jimmy Butler trade breakdown:

• Golden State Warriors received: Jimmy Butler
• Miami Heat received: Andrew Wiggins, PJ Tucker, first-round pick
• Detroit Pistons received: Lindy Waters III, Josh Richardson, second-round pick
• Utah Jazz received: Dennis Schroder
• Toronto Raptors received: Kyle Anderson

ESPN's Shams Charania broke the news of the blockbuster trade just an hour before the Warriors' matchup against the Utah Jazz. Since then, one burning question on fans' minds has been: When will Jimmy Butler make his Warriors debut?

The Warriors are set to face the Lakers on Thursday in the second game of a back-to-back, but Butler will not be available, as the trade has yet to be officially finalized.

Golden State's next matchup is against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday and if all goes according to plan, Butler could make his Warriors debut against his former team at the United Center.

Jimmy Butler's contract with Golden State Warriors

Earlier reports suggested that Jimmy Butler was unwilling to commit to a long-term contract with the Golden State Warriors. In fact, one report even indicated that the Warriors had withdrawn their interest in trading for Butler due to his reluctance to sign an extension with the team.

However, following the announcement of Butler’s trade to the Warriors on Wednesday, it was also revealed that the former Miami Heat star had agreed to a two-year deal with Golden State. Butler reportedly declined his player option for the 2025-26 season and instead signed a two-year, $121 million contract with the Warriors.