Following the Suns’ first preseason game versus the Lakers, one player in particular has had me pondering about what role or impact he could make on this team. That player is point guard Jared Butler.
In Butler’s debut with the Suns, he posted a stat line of 12 points, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 1 block on 50% shooting from the field. With the Suns’ guard depth being Booker, Green, Gillespie, Brea, and Butler, I’m curious to see where he falls within that rotation, as I mentioned in my YouTube video.
I wasn’t too familiar with what Butler would bring to the table. I wasn’t sure if he was more of a scorer or a facilitator. Butler had a very interesting 2024-25 season as he spent time with the Wizards and 76ers. With the Wizards, Butler averaged 6.9 points and 2.6 assists in 11.3 minutes per game. Butler was then traded to the 76ers.
Butler saw double the production with the 76ers and doubled his numbers as well, averaging 11.5 points and 4.9 assists in 24.4 minutes per game. Butler, in year 5, has shown that with the right opportunity, he can produce for your team.
When looking into Butler, here are some ways he can be beneficial for the Suns. He can bring bench scoring and lineup flexibility. If he can hit threes and move without the ball, he gives coaches more options for lineups. Maybe pairing him with other off-ball shooters or more defensively oriented wings, allowing better matchups and spacing.
One thing that I find underrated about Butler and what he can bring is his perimeter defense and creating turnovers. His quick hands, instincts, willingness to press, and jumping passing lanes can help the Suns generate transition opportunities. Having someone who hustles defensively and can guard multiple perimeter positions (at least decently) is valuable in the West, where guards/wings move quickly.
