The Warriors aren’t interested in Jimmy Butler because they are saving draft capital for a franchise-altering star like Giannis, ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk says

“I don’t think there’s interest in Butler. But if they were to do that, you can’t take a swing then if things go bad in Milwaukee with Giannis this summer. And that is why you have to hold on to your assets to make a run at a guy like that if he becomes available.”

The Golden State Warriors are thinking big. While rumors swirl about potential moves involving star players like Jimmy Butler, the Warriors are holding steady, refusing to dive into a deal unless it offers them a true franchise-altering player. According to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk, the Warriors are focused on something even bigger — securing a shot at Giannis Antetokounmpo if he becomes available in the near future.

Here’s the rationale behind Golden State’s strategy: Butler, while an incredible player in his own right, doesn’t fit the profile of a player who can elevate a team into championship contention at this stage of the Warriors’ window. Jimmy Butler has been a key figure for the Miami Heat, but with the Warriors’ aging core of Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, they need a true superstar who could complement their already established championship pedigree.

And that’s where Giannis comes into play. The reigning Finals MVP has the kind of transcendent talent that could reshape an entire franchise. But securing him is a long-term gamble, one that requires all the draft capital and future assets the Warriors can muster. If things go sideways in Milwaukee this summer—whether due to organizational issues, roster changes, or any unforeseen drama with Giannis’ future—the Warriors want to be in prime position to pounce.

“You can’t take a swing then if things go bad in Milwaukee with Giannis this summer,” Youngmisuk noted. “And that is why you have to hold on to your assets to make a run at a guy like that if he becomes available.”

In other words, the Warriors aren’t just thinking about this season or even next—they are playing the long game. By holding onto their draft picks and assets, they are positioning themselves to go after a player of Giannis’ caliber if the situation arises.

This careful balancing act is a testament to the Warriors’ front office, which has shown a keen sense of timing and decision-making over the years. While the rest of the league scrambles to land stars like Butler, Golden State is looking further down the line, keeping an eye on the possibility of securing a generational talent.

As the trade deadline approaches and the future of stars like Giannis remains uncertain, it’s clear that the Warriors have set their sights on a grand prize. Whether or not that gamble pays off will depend on how the NBA landscape unfolds in the coming months. But one thing is clear: the Warriors aren’t settling for anything less than a superstar who could change the course of their franchise.