Jimmy Butler Golden State Warriors look to maintain momentum against Toronto Raptors

SAN FRANCISCO – The Jimmy Butler trade continues to pay dividends for the Golden State Warriors, who are 15-3 since acquiring the six-time All-Star forward from the Miami Heat on Feb 6.

The Warriors (40-29) are poised to resume their climb up the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) Western Conference standings when they face the Toronto Raptors (24-45) at Chase Centre in San Francisco on March 20 (March 21, Singapore time).

With guard Stephen Curry rested, Butler had 24 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds in Golden State’s 104-93 home victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on March 18. Curry is expected to return for the next contest.

Butler’s presence has created scoring opportunities throughout the line-up for Golden State. Brandin Podziemski scored 17 points against Milwaukee and Buddy Hield added 15 points off the bench.

“It’s why (Butler) is who he is. He commands so much attention. For us, that’s great because he’s allowing everybody else to get in their spots where they’re comfortable and either get lay-ups or open jump shots,” Warriors forward Draymond Green said.

Butler is averaging 17.2 points, 5.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists in 17 games since joining the Warriors, who hold the sixth seed in the West.

Green has also played a key role in Golden State’s surge while making a strong case for his second NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award.

He helped limit Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo to 20 points – with just five field goals – and has a combined nine blocks in his past two games.

“Draymond, that defence on Giannis was incredible. Draymond showed why he is still one of the great defenders in the world. It wasn’t just the defence; it was the leadership, the energy,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said.

Looking ahead, Golden State are seeking a split