Bulls' Jimmy Butler: Struggles with shot, gets to foul line 19 times
Butler (heel) contributed 19 points (2-10 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 15-19 FT), 12 assists, four steals and two rebounds across 38 minutes during a 105-94 win over the Raptors on Tuesday.
Analysis:
After missing three of the past four games with a bruised heel, Butler reclaimed his spot in the starting lineup, and overcame a poor night from the field to deliver strong production across the board. With his shot not falling, Butler made a concerted effort to get to the line, and picked up some easy points in that capacity while also serving as the team's chief facilitator on a night backcourt mate Dwyane Wade (wrist) wasn't available. The 12 assists tied a season high for Butler, who figures to remain the team's top facilitator Thursday against the Celtics with Wade looking doubtful to play.