Breaking news: Ahead of Warriors-Rockets Game 4, Jimmy Butler Announces…

Breaking: Jimmy Butler Cleared to Play Pending Final Approval Ahead of Warriors-Rockets Game 4

In a stunning turn of events just hours before tipoff, Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler has announced that he could suit up for Game 4 of the Golden State Warriors’ first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets — pending final clearance from team doctors.

The announcement, which came through Butler’s social media earlier this afternoon, has sent shockwaves across the NBA landscape. Although Butler is not a member of either the Warriors or the Rockets, his unexpected involvement could dramatically alter the complexion of the series. Sources close to the situation say Butler had been quietly rehabbing from a minor knee injury and was seen practicing with full intensity earlier this week.

“I’ve been grinding behind the scenes. I’m feeling good,” Butler wrote on Instagram. “If the doctors give me the green light, I’m ready to go tonight.”

It remains unclear exactly how Butler would be integrated into the Warriors’ lineup, or whether a formal announcement from Golden State’s front office is forthcoming. Speculation is already swirling about whether the Warriors had been in discussions to sign Butler as an emergency reinforcement, a rarely used but not unprecedented move in NBA playoff history. With several Warriors players, including veteran guard Klay Thompson, nursing injuries, the team has been exploring all possible options to bolster their roster.

Golden State head coach Steve Kerr addressed the media briefly this morning but was noncommittal when asked about Butler.

“Jimmy’s a phenomenal player. Any team would be lucky to have him,” Kerr said with a smile. “As far as tonight goes, we’ll see what the doctors and league rules allow. Our focus is on getting the guys we have ready to play.”

The NBA’s playoff eligibility rules are notoriously strict. Typically, players must be on a team’s roster before the end of the regular season to participate in the playoffs. However, exceptions can sometimes be made under extraordinary circumstances, and the Warriors could potentially apply for a hardship exemption given their injury situation.

Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets, who trail the Warriors 2–1 in the best-of-seven series, are preparing as though Butler will indeed be available.

“You prepare for everyone,” Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said during his pregame media availability. “If Jimmy suits up, we’ll be ready. We’re focused on playing our game regardless of who’s across from us.”

Butler’s potential addition would add a fascinating wrinkle to a series that has already been highly competitive. The Rockets stole Game 2 in San Francisco behind a huge performance from Jalen Green, but the Warriors answered back with a gritty Game 3 win led by Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Golden State has been seeking consistent production from its wing players — an area where Butler excels, particularly with his playoff pedigree.

Known for his toughness, leadership, and clutch scoring, Butler’s mere presence could shift momentum heavily in Golden State’s favor. In last year’s postseason, Butler averaged 28.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, carrying the Heat to the NBA Finals before falling to the Denver Nuggets.

For now, fans will have to wait for official word. League sources indicate that a decision on Butler’s status is expected about an hour before tipoff, following a final evaluation from Warriors medical staff and a conference with league officials.

Regardless of whether Butler ultimately takes the court tonight, his announcement has already injected new energy and drama into an already thrilling playoff series. All eyes will be on Chase Center this evening, where Game 4 has suddenly become a must-watch event — with or without Jimmy Butler suiting up.