Just like what happens every single year, NBA fans and players complain about the pre-season rankings of the best players.
This year won’t be the exception to that rule, especially considering that, as per usual, some of the positions chosen for some players were hard to explain.
With that in mind, former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins claimed that it was time the media stopped disrespecting Jimmy Butler (via ClutchPoints).
"Playoff Jimmy is a real thing… We have to stop disrespecting Jimmy Butler. In my opinion, he’s a top 10 player in the league."
Kendrick Perkins on Butler being ranked No. 12 in ESPN's player rankings 👀
(via @ESPNNBA)pic.twitter.com/SFgT9SK2XT
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 11, 2023
Perkins argued that ‘playoff Jimmy is a real thing,’ stating that he’s led the Miami Heat to two trips to the NBA Finals, and he should’ve at least cracked the top 10.
Truth be told, he’s right on point.
Butler is a top-10 player in the league when he’s at his best.
He’s one of the best defenders, and while not a good shooter by any means, he knows how to get his spots, is an aggressive scorer, and is even able to knock down some big shots down the stretch, especially in the postseason.
Perhaps the biggest issue with him is that it seems like he takes some days off during the regular season.
He’s admitted that he only cares about the playoffs and the NBA Finals, and that makes it tough for experts to put him next to those who deliver every single day.
Butler’s decision to take it easy in the regular season has paid off with trips to the NBA Finals, but he’s been exhausted on that stage because he often has a tougher path in the playoffs.
Perhaps he should reconsider his approach.
NEXT: Jimmy Butler Makes His Thoughts Clear On Losing 2023 Finals
