Abdelrahman
Draymond Green is confident that the Golden State Warriors are in excellent hands with Jimmy Butler on the roster.
Since acquiring Butler, the Warriors have raised their record to 3-1, highlighted by a 105-98 win against the Houston Rockets on Thursday at the Toyota Center.
The four-time NBA champion, drawing from his wealth of experience, made a compelling statement regarding Butler’s impact on the team. “He’s a franchise changer,” Green remarked. “He’s proven that he can uplift teams everywhere he’s played, and he’s revitalizing what we have here.”
“The belief within the team, since his arrival, has transformed immensely—it’s like night and day,” he added.
In just his fourth game since being traded from the Miami Heat, Butler contributed significantly with 19 points, eight rebounds, and four assists against a formidable Rockets squad.
Butler made a crucial entrance at the 4:42 mark in the fourth quarter, helping the Warriors maintain a narrow four-point lead. They then surged ahead with a 9-2 run, with Butler scoring four of those points.
Joining forces with Steph Curry, Butler has proven to be a game-changer for the team.
“We let a game slip away last night, but we would have lost this one before Butler arrived,” Green noted. “Having a player like him transforms everything. The initial evaluation after four games is incredibly positive.”
Once in need of reliable late-game options beyond Curry, Coach Steve Kerr recognizes the shift in dynamics with Butler’s acquisition.
“Jimmy is the real deal,” stated Kerr. “He’s an all-around basketball player—methodical, composed, and always in control. He plays at his tempo, rarely turns the ball over, reads the game well, and frequently draws fouls.”
“He might not close games in the traditional sense, like Kevin Durant hitting consecutive mid-range jumpers, but his game is well-rounded. He gets to the free-throw line, makes the right pass, finds open teammates, secures defensive stops, and grabs rebounds. He’s an exceptional player.”
Regarding the evolving chemistry among the Warriors with Butler included, Green believes it’s only a matter of time before everything synchronizes perfectly.
Butler is proving to be a highly synergistic addition to the team.
“We’re getting there,” Green stated. “It takes time, but Jimmy’s tendency to overcommunicate is fantastic. He clarifies everything, leaving no room for ambiguity.”
“He asks, ‘What was my role there? How can I improve?’ His proactive communication about each play showcases his leadership qualities. I truly appreciate what he’s bringing to our squad.”
