After almost two months since leading the Baylor Bears to a National Championship, Jared Butler has declared for the 2021 NBA Draft. The junior guard took his time to finalize his decision and has now decided to go pro.

In his final season with Baylor, Butler averaged an impressive 16.7 points and 4.8 assists per game. He delivered these numbers while being rock solid on defense and shooting 41% from three. But being a junior decreases his draft stock. So let’s look at three teams that could realistically pick him in the upcoming NBA Draft.

New York Knicks

Baylor won the 2021 NCAA tournament because of their athleticism and tough defense. Butler prides himself in those qualities which are also two attributes that Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau desires in his players. Being a junior, he also adds some experience alongside the young Immanuel Quickley and the new addition Luca Vildoza.

The Knicks have got five players from their guard rotation hitting free agency so bringing in Butler could be a good move to shore up the depth. Depending on the situation, the Knicks could draft him with either of their late first-round picks.

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Los Angeles Lakers

When the Lakers paired up Anthony Davis with LeBron James, the plan for the rest of the team was to add shooters. So adding a player like Butler who is a consistent shooter will be perfect for the Lakers.

Another problem that Butler solves at LA is their playmaking void when LeBron is off the floor. They don’t have anyone else who is a natural playmaker like him and that hurts their offense. In his final season, Butler showed he can create for others when given the opportunity so he should be one to look out for, for the Lakers.

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Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets guard depth is clearly lacking right now and Butler can immediately help them. At Denver, Butler can excel more as a scorer than a passer since he would play alongside Nikola Jokic and Facundo Campazzo, two excellent playmakers.

The Nuggets’ guards also need a lift defensively so Butler can fill that gap. If given the opportunity, the Nuggets shouldn’t think twice about bringing in Butler.

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