NBA Notes: Warriors, Jimmy Butler, Knicks, Clippers, James Harden

WARRIORS

Golden State is heading into the break with renewed confidence, thanks in large part to their newest addition, Jimmy Butler. Since acquiring Butler, the Warriors have gone 3-1, including a 105-98 victory over the Rockets on Thursday. His impact has been felt immediately, both on and off the court.

“He’s a franchise changer,” Warriors forward Draymond Green told reporters about Butler. “He’s done that everywhere he’s gone and he is helping revitalize what we got here. The belief amongst this team, now that he’s arrived, as opposed to what it was before he got here, it’s night and day.” 

Coach Steve Kerr has been equally impressed.

“Jimmy, he’s a real deal,” Kerr said. “I mean, just a complete basketball player, methodical, under control all the time, plays at his own pace, never turns it over, sees the game and then can get to the line frequently.

“Great closer, not in the traditional sense where he’s going to be Kevin Durant and make four straight midrange jumpers, but it’s more of a complete game. Get to the line, make the right pass, get somebody else an open look, get a defensive stop, get a rebound. He’s a fantastic player.”

KNICKS

Karl-Anthony Towns has lived up to the expectations of being a No. 1 pick, and his best years may still be ahead of him. Now a decade into his career, Towns has learned to embrace the journey and reflect on how far he’s come, especially after being named an All-Star once again. 

“I tried my best in my career to be appreciative of these moments,” Towns said, as we relayed here. “This is something I’ve learned as my career has gone on, a decade in. I make it a point to appreciate these moments as they come, because you never know what life has. 

“When I was younger, I felt like I was very invincible, that nothing would happen. Then injuries came along in my career, which I had never dealt with my entire life. It humbled me, slowed me down and allowed me to appreciate these moments, because you never know what life has in store.” 

CLIPPERS

James Harden’s relentless effort helped ensure the Timberwolves wouldn’t leap past the Clippers in the conference standings. The former MVP didn’t just play his role — he actively pushed to stay on the floor of LA’s 120-116 OT road win over the Jazz, knowing how important the game was heading into the All-Star break. 

“I told (Tyronn Lue) don’t take me out of the game, that this is a must-win for us,” Harden said after the hard-fought matchup. “Seriously, because we need to go into this break with some swagger. He listened and we won the game. Just trying to do whatever it takes to win games.”