Jimmy Butler’s Arrival Ignites the Warriors
The Golden State Warriors and their passionate fan base are witnessing firsthand a phenomenon that was evident from afar during Jimmy Butler’s tenure in Miami. Butler is a rare breed of player whose mere presence significantly elevates his teammates. This influence was immediately apparent upon his debut with the Warriors on February 8 in Chicago and was particularly evident in the second quarter of their recent game against the Sacramento Kings.
The Second Quarter Magic
As Stephen Curry watched from the bench, Butler’s presence and performance were the driving force behind a 22-8 run in less than five minutes, giving the Warriors a commanding 53-36 lead. Rookie center Quinten Post hit three 3-pointers without a miss, and Moses Moody was perfect on his two shots. The Warriors shot an impressive 9-of-11 from the field. Butler contributed with three points, two assists, two "hockey" assists, and one rebound, all in a game-changing five-minute span. The Warriors maintained their lead throughout the second half, securing a 132-106 victory and ending a five-game losing streak to the Kings.
Curry’s Praise and Team Impact
“Us controlling the second (quarter) had a lot to do with the experience but also Jimmy’s presence,” Curry told reporters in Sacramento. “That lineup when I was off the court . . . when you look at the plus-minus, there’s a reason that they took advantage of those minutes because when you have a lead and you’re able to control possessions and still get stops. That has a lot to do with him and the presence and the confidence that he exudes on the floor.” Butler’s impact is not just statistical; it is palpable in the team’s overall efficiency and confidence.
The Numbers Tell the Story
In just five games, the plus-minus numbers speak volumes. Brandin Podziemski is plus-79 post-Jimmy, Moses Moody is plus-46, Kevon Looney is plus-20, Gui Santos is plus-14, and Quinten Post is plus-19. Even the seasoned veterans are benefiting, with Draymond Green at plus-59 and Curry at plus-42. Butler himself is plus-28, and the Warriors have a record of 4-1, with the confidence of a team on a 12-game winning streak.
Coach Kerr’s Perspective
“Jimmy gives us some swagger,” coach Steve Kerr said at Golden1 Center. Butler’s individual per-game statistics—20.4 points on 45.5-percent shooting, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.8 assists—indicate his productivity. His 41-of-47 shooting from the foul line highlights his reliability under pressure. However, his most significant contribution is his ability to connect the game for his teammates. Kerr praised Butler’s passing, shot creation, and fundamental play, noting that his presence ensures the team gets better looks and more open shots.
A Legacy of Empowerment
Butler’s impact extends beyond his current team. During his five seasons with the Miami Heat, he helped the team reach the conference finals three times and the NBA Finals twice, in 2020 and 2023. Consider the roster of the 2019-20 Heat: Bam Adebayo was a second-year player, Tyler Herro a rookie, and Duncan Robinson an undrafted guard. Butler led this young and inexperienced team to the NBA Finals. Similarly, the 2023 Heat, as an eighth seed, made it to the NBA Finals with players like Max Strus, Caleb Martin, and a point guard duo of Gabe Vincent and Kyle Lowry. Butler’s ability to empower and elevate his teammates is a consistent theme throughout his career, making him an invaluable asset to the Warriors.
