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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

All eyes were on Jimmy Butler during this trade window, and the loudest buzz was coming from Phoenix, with many believing his future was all but sealed there. Then, out of nowhere, a twist emerged, and his path led him to Golden State. But was it that simple? Not quite. There was an external force at play in the Warriors’ front office, which is speculated to have sealed the deal. That force? It was within the Warriors’ squad.

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The Athletic‘s Marcus Thompson II and Sam Amick broke the news on Monday, revealing some behind-the-scenes details of the Dubs’ front office that had previously been hidden. Apparently, Draymond Green made a request to the franchise before the trade deadline. What was his request? To bring in someone like him, a player who could match his level of intensity on the court. And it was granted.

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“Before Butler arrived, Green had a standing request of the team’s front office that he deemed vital to their renaissance: Go get another “a–hole,” as one team source described it,” the duo stated in their report. “Another fiery, two-way talent like him who would say what needed to be said at all times and compete on the knife’s edge on both ends of the floor.”

Although Dray sometimes crosses the line with his on-court antics, which can cost the team, Jimmy Butler has the same intensity and passion that Draymond brings (without the collateral damage, though). Since the ex-Heat veteran’s arrival, the Warriors have won 5 of their last 6 games and have climbed up the Western Conference standings, currently sitting at the 9th spot.

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That’s certainly a win-win situation for both the teams, which had been waiting for a blockbuster trade, and the 35-year-old player, who was in dire need to move out of Miami. While things are looking up on the court, with the Warriors showing improvement, Jimmy’s courtside behavior could still get him into some trouble.

Warriors’ newbie Jimmy Butler’s behavior with teammate could spell trouble

During the final quarter on Sunday, with around 7 minutes left on the clock as the visitors were taking a free throw, Jimmy Butler was courtside. The 6x All-Star was spotted flipping the bird at Buddy Hield on National TV. Though the Bahamian guard could be seen laughing instantly, which means it was all in good humor, the league is known to be intolerant of such behavior.

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While the X clip is making a round on the internet showing Jimmy making the gesture, it hasn’t grabbed the attention of NBA Commissioner Adam Silver or his officials yet. If it does, even the Warriors newcomer knows how harsh the punishment can be. A suspension could be on the table—something Jimmy has already faced a couple of times this season and surely wouldn’t want to go through again. Moreover, a hefty fine could also follow.

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The league is strict about maintaining proper behavior in the arena, and Jimmy, of all people, knows this by now.

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On the flip side, the new chapter for Jimmy Butler has been going well so far. He’s been averaging 20 points, 5.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.5 steals, providing great value to the Warriors, especially for Stephen Curry. If Butler continues to bring his veteran presence, the Warriors’ chances of reaching their ultimate goal are higher.

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Shalini Ray

774 Articles

Shalini Ray is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports, dedicated to delivering in-depth analysis, news, and insights on all things basketball. With a passion for the game and its stories, she creates engaging content for fellow fans and enthusiasts. A vocal supporter of Steph Curry and Luka Doncic, her love for sports also transcends the hardboard reaching the soccer fields and tennis courts. Her interest in crime thrillers, craft and fashion provides her with a unique blend of perspectives that can be keen-eyed and funky at the same time.

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Geisha Pulimoottil Don

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