Jimmy Butler is hoping to earn his 3rd consecutive All Star selection this season. He certainly deserves it and will undoubtedly be chosen as a coach’s reserve if not voted into one of the starting spots by fans, players and media. The second return of votes had Jimmy ranked 5th among forwards in the Eastern Conference.
When asked by members of the Chicago media if he cared about making it to another All Star Game, Butler defiantly said no.
“I don’t care…That doesn’t mean anything to me right now. If I’m there, I’m there. If I’m not, I’ll be in Barbados, enjoying the weather.’’ – Jimmy Butler
At least one of his teammates isn’t buying that at all. Here’s what Taj Gibson had to say to K.C. Johnson about Butler dismissing the significance of making another All Star appearance:
Taj Gibson on Jimmy Butler's claim that making All-Star game means "absolutely nothing": "He's lying so much."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) January 19, 2017
Gibson is probably right. Given the way that Butler has elevated his play yet again this season, it must mean something to be recognized for his individual hard work. But Jimmy is the leader of this team, and he has to let everyone know that his top concern is getting wins.
That doesn’t mean his teammates won’t call him out when they know he’s lying.
TNT will reveal the starting All Stars for each conference in a live show Thursday evening at 6:00 CST.
