The Golden State Warriors are having a resurgence with Jimmy Butler in their ranks. The 35-year-old’s arrival to the Dubs gave the team the second star scorer they badly needed.
Butler’s scoring, playmaking, and defense eased the burden on Stephen Curry, and the team only lost once in the eight games he played for the Bay Area. You can even see how Jimmy Buckets’ arrival affected Curry after making a rare slam during their latest game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
However, it became clear how important Butler was to the team’s success. An undermanned Sixers squad—that may have to move forward without Joel Embiid in the next two seasons—managed to take down the Warriors after Jimmy had to sit out for a game.
As Butler’s value to Golden State becomes clearer, Steve Kerr faced questions after the game about the team’s chances in the postseason as the sun begins to set on Steph’s legendary career.
Steve Kerr tempers expectations for the Golden State Warriors after bitter loss to the Sixers
Golden State looked like their typical pre-Butler trade selves when Butler had to sit out due to back spasms. Chef Curry had an incredible night against Philly, scoring 29 points, five rebounds, 13 assists, and one steal on 55.6% shooting and 41.7% from deep.
However, the rest of the team failed to outplay a hungry Philadelphia side after losing 119-126. They had no defensive answer to Quentin Grimes, who made a career-high 44 points.
The press quickly asked Kerr if the Dubs could win the Finals after such an abysmal showing. The multi-time NBA champion quickly doused any fiery expectations people may have had over his team.
Per NBC Sports Bay Area’s Angelina Martin:
“Do you think it will be enough, this year’s bench players’ performance in the Finals?” a reporter asked Kerr (h/t The Athletic’s Anthony Slater).
“We would like to make the playoffs. The playoffs. You’re talking about the Finals?” Kerr responded before taking a long pause. “We just want to make the playoffs. Let’s not talk about the Finals.”
It’s clear the Warriors badly needed Butler’s help if they’re going to make any meaningful postseason runs. While his back spasms will not keep him out for long, the Dubs must address the deficiencies in their roster through proper scheming if they want to have a long shot at the Larry O’Brien trophy.
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