One move can change the complexion of an entire season, and the Golden State Warriors title hopes changed instantly when they acquired former Miami Heat All-Star, Jimmy Butler.
Head coach Steve Kerr's unit has looked dangerous since bringing in Butler, and the Warriors' most recent string of success has shown that their roster could be a threat in the Western Conference this spring. Butler is a known playoff X-factor who may help invigorate Draymond Green, Stephen Curry, Jonathan Kuminga, and others.
Despite the fact that the West is packed with elite talent, the Warriors should not be dismissed. They have players with real postseason experience, and it is completely possible that they receive a favorable first round matchup that could propel them towards a legitimate run.
“I’m sorry,” Green said in February shortly after the team added Butler. “I said I think we’re gonna win a championship. But I lied. We are going to win the championship. That’s what’s going to happen.”
If the playoffs started today, the Warriors would face the Nuggets.
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A once-elusive Warriors goal is now closer than ever thanks to Jimmy Butler
Through his first 16 games with Golden State, Butler averaged 16.8 points, 5.9 assists, and 5.8 rebounds. His scoring has been a touch below his mark through 25 games with the Heat this season, but it is evident that the 35-year-old's playmaking and defensive willpower have been enhanced since he left South Beach.
This is likely a product of Butler being generally happier and having more pieces around him. In any event, his increase in productivity is an important trend that could be seen as a warning sign of a potential playoff surge.
It would not be Butler's first time warming up for a deep run. He was able to lead Miami to two NBA Finals appearances, and has a track record of rising to the occasion.
Another heater this spring could allow Curry, Green, Kuminga, and others room to breathe and play their brand of basketball without trying to do too much. The defensive attention Butler demands when he's hot is more than enough to free up teammates.
Aggression will be key for Butler come playoff time. Outside of Curry, he may be the only Warrior that warrants a permanent "green light." He attempted 16 field goals in the Warriors' recent loss to a Denver Nuggets group that was without Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic. It is worth wondering how they would have fared if he took a more selfish approach (and if they received a better shooting night from Curry).
The Warriors' championship hopes will also partially hinge on how the West shakes out. It is possible that they would have to play the Nuggets or Los Angeles Lakers in the first round, but they may end up meeting a less experienced team like the Memphis Grizzlies or Houston Rockets.
An easier matchup against a team that's younger and largely unfamiliar with playoff basketball would be ideal. But, Butler has made a Warriors' path to the NBA Finals workable, and that is not something that many expected when the season began.