Jimmy Butler’s midrange mastery must continue for Miami Heat
By Isiah Curry
Jimmy Butler’s Midrange Mastery Must Continue For Miami Heat
It’s what, ultimately, allowed Miami to tie the game at 100 with just 2:32 remaining in the final period. The particular instance in question is one where Jimmy converted an 18-foot step back jumper over Hornets forward, Kelly Oubre Jr, per NBA.com.
In this late possession, Butler is closely defended in the post by Oubre Jr, who was one of Hornets coach, Steve Clifford’s, best options for challenging the Heat superstar.
As Miami was searching for an early look in the shot clock, Kyle Lowry attempts to screen Oubre, which would’ve forced a smaller defender in Terry Rozier to switch onto Butler. Oubre chooses to stay over but Butler is able to create enough space with a one-dribble step back as he makes a well-contested baseline look.
But furthermore, the Heat have needed Jimmy’s peak performance, which is him relentlessly attacking defense on the interior. But it partially takes away from an area that he succeeds in and that’s to create from outside of the painted area.
But you live with that if the results continue to go the Heat’s way.