Chicago Bulls: Jimmy Butler Not An All-Star Starter

Chicago Bulls star Jimmy Butler may not be part of the starting five for this year’s All-Star Game, but that does not take away from his performance so far this season.

The NBA has announced the starters for this year’s All-Star game, and to the disappointment of many Chicago Bulls supporters, Jimmy Butler did not make the cut.

While it is no surprise that Dwyane Wade came in first and was leading the polls from the get-go, the question of who would be joining him in the backcourt has been on the minds of eager fans around the league.

Butler, who is playing his best basketball yet by averaging 22.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game, has recently grabbed everyone’s attention. Although the Bulls have not exactly been talked about in the most positive light as a team, the combo guard/forward’s talents have been recognized nationwide.

Recently, former NBA-great Jalen Rose said he thought Butler was playing at an All-Star level after being asked what he thought about the supposed feud between him and teammate Derrick Rose:

"“The star power is who is playing at an All-Star level, a top 12 level, and that’s Jimmy Butler. He’s become one of the best players in the league, a terrifc two-way player. So he’s the marquee.”"

Butler may not be part of the starting five in Toronto this Valentine’s Day weekend, but he will without a doubt be making his All-Star debut this season.

And there should be more career accomplishments to come for the 26-year-old.

It was revealed on Monday that Butler is amidst 30 players chosen to possibly represent Team USA in their quest for another gold medal.

"“I think it’s great,” Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg said of the news. “It’s very well deserved. You know Jimmy, from when he came into this league as a late first-round draft pick, not playing a lot early in his career, that’s a testament to his work ethic. It’s the reason he’s the type of player and kid that he is today and it’s a great honor, great recognition. And hopefully he’ll make that team, I think he’s very well-deserving.”"

Butler took part in Team USA’s minicamp last offseason, and with how far he has come in less than a year’s time, it is not unthinkable that Chicago’s newest superstar could make the cut.

For the first time, Butler is also a top 10 jersey seller; he cracked the list at No. 10, as Rose dropped to No. 6. The Bulls as a team rank second.

More hoops habit: Bulls Should Entertain Gasol Trade Talks

Butler enthusiasts may feel like the athlete was slighted by not starting in the All-Star game, but make no mistake: this is still his year.

Even Marky Mark is on his side…