marson wrote:3ammy3uck3ts wrote:marson wrote:
I'm genuinely curious if Butler had joined Philly after 2019 and if Kawhi's buzzer-beater hadn't occurred. We might have seen multiple Finals appearances for Butler and Embiid duo, assuming no injuries. Also, Bam's development might have taken a different trajectory. He's fortunate to have had Butler's influence for five years of his career.
As long as the warriors still sustained the same injuries they very well could have won that year.
You think Bam would be a worse player had we not gotten Jimmy?
I'm not implying that Bam would be worse off, but it underscores how luck can significantly impact a player's resume and perception. With Butler, Embiid, and let's say Maxey on the team, it would be incredibly surprising if they didn't secure at least one championship.
They more than likely wouldn’t have been in position to draft Maxey but they could have, you never know. Could definitely see them beating the 21 Bucks team and 22 Warriors. Idk about the Nuggets. Also gotta factor in Embiid is likely playing on half a leg by the time he makes it to the finals too.
In terms of winning and stuff you are likely right on Butler and his impact on Bam but we’ll never know. Maybe they have similar success with another star that plays and fits better with Bam and had we drafted Maxey.
Your comment made me curious on Bam from a numbers standpoints next to Jimmy and without Jimmy over the years.
2020:
With - 15.5-10-5-1-1 56% shooting on 11 shots.
Without - 17-9-6.5-1-2 58% shooting on 11 shots
2021:
With - 18.5-9-5-1-1 58% shooting on 12 shots
Without - 19.5-9-6.5-1-1 54% shooting on 13 shots
2022:
With - 19-10-3-1.5-1 55% shooting on 13 shots
Without - 20-9-4-1.5-1 61% shooting on 13 shots
2023:
With - 20-9-3-1.5-1 54% shooting on 15 shots
Without - 22.5-10.5-3.5-1-1 54% shooting on 16 shots
2024:
With - 18-10-3.5-1-1 52% shooting on 14 shots
Without - 22-11.5-5-1-1 53% shooting on 16 shots
Having never really been the greatest fit but they’re both dogs when it matters most and have elite impact on the game so we almost always find a way