Butler's sudden absence sparks controversy! Warriors' official comment section erupts: Is it a trade or an urgent matter?

On January 18th Beijing time, the Warriors played at home against the Hornets, and Jimmy Butler's sudden withdrawal caught fans’ attention.

Before the game officially tipped off, the Warriors revealed their starting lineup which included Butler. Yet after the tip-off, Richard took Butler’s spot in the starting lineup, and Butler was absent from the bench. The Warriors only issued a statement almost a quarter into the game, explaining Butler’s absence was due to personal reasons.

Butler’s unexpected rest sparked heated discussions among fans in the official comment section. Many speculated that Butler might be headed for a trade, as players are often pulled out temporarily in such situations. However, more fans sent their well wishes, hoping Butler was okay. Some suggested that Butler might have had an emergency at home, preventing him from playing this game.

The Warriors’ next opponent is the Miami Heat, Butler’s former team. Therefore, some fans joked that Butler was taking a break to recharge his energy for facing his old club.

So far this season, Butler has played 37 games for the Warriors, averaging 20.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 51.9% and a three-point accuracy of 38.1%. Before this game, Butler had missed 5 games this season, during which the Warriors went 1-4.