As smiles transitioned into something more serious during Jimmy Butler’s introductory press conference with the Golden State Warriors, it quickly became clear that everyone involved, from player to organization, had endorsed a similar phrase: “Hitting the ground running.” Undoubtedly more used to a slower-paced method of play, Butler used February 8, 2025’s debut to showcase just how much he would sacrifice and adjust for a chance at an elusive NBA title. Blending patience and urgency into his early-offense approach, the six-time All-Star leaves the Chicago Bulls’ already-disorganized transition defense in further disarray after attacking Coby White’s closeout, unlocking a lane to the rim. Having already drawn enough contact to ensure himself two free throws if all else fails, Butler powers through duress, double-clutching a reverse through to extend the Warriors’ late-game double-digit edge. Successfully creating new memories in his old home, Butler helped the Warriors run wild during a blowout win, contributing a 25-point, two-rebound, four-assist, one-steal, one-block tally on elite efficiency overall (7-of-12) and from the charity stripe (11-of-13). · Feb 9, 2025