The Golden State Warriors secured a spot in the 2025 NBA Playoffs as the seventh seed in the Western Conference following a win over the Memphis Grizzlies. Stephen Curry stole the show with a fourth-quarter takeover, but that game was also the latest example of how Jimmy Butler can raise his level when the stakes are highest.

He could be heard, loud and clear, notedly loquacious teammate Draymond Green said after Butler scored 38 points in a 121-116 play-in victory over Memphis in his postseason debut for the Warriors . “He had not yelled at anybody since he’s been here,” Green said, before adding. “He’s, like, yelling at guys now. Like it’s a totally different person.”

After Butler requested a trade from the Miami Heat in January, the Grizzlies were reportedly very interested in adding the six-time All-Star. Butler didn't share that interest.