The season's breakout star at the unofficial halfway point will get to put his new found offensive prowess on display at the All-Star Game, after all.
There was little doubt left, but Chicago Bulls swingman Jimmy Butler is officially a go for Sunday's showcase and will suit up for the Eastern Conference. He was introduced with the active players during pre-game introductions, not with those unavailable due to injury.
Jimmy Butler. pic.twitter.com/fN2j7FW45K
— Marcus (@_MarcusD_) February 16, 2015
Butler had been considered questionable earlier in the week because of a right shoulder strain that kept him out of the lineup on Thursday. He had more or less confirmed he would play on Saturday following the All-Star practice but wanted to test his shoulder out on Sunday before making a final decision.
He wasn't exactly being shy around the cameras for his first All-Star appearance during pre-game warmups.
Getting hyped for #NBAAllStarNYC Game with @JimmyButler! pic.twitter.com/cOuv69xRSY
— NBA (@NBA) February 16, 2015
#Marquettefamily @MarquetteMBB pic.twitter.com/pwlCauaIIt
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) February 16, 2015
Jimmy Butler and Kevin Durant sharing a few words before the game. pic.twitter.com/xX0FRAWT5q
— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) February 16, 2015
Butler being able to play is a nice reward for the season he's turned in so far, one that's seen him average 20.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists, all while playing his customary lock-down perimeter defense. That tenacious defense won't be appreciated much in the All-Star format, but his 34.2 percent mark from long range could see him get in on the action on the other end of the floor.