Golden State's transformation under Jimmy Butler has been nothing short of remarkable. Since the trade deadline, the Warriors have posted a league-best 16-3 record while completely redefining their offensive identity. Once reliant almost exclusively on three-point shooting, they've morphed into a free-throw generating machine, jumping from 27th to 4th in fouls drawn per possession.
The beautiful synergy between Butler and Curry demonstrates how complementary styles can elevate a team's ceiling. While Curry continues his perpetual motion offense (running off 416 off-ball screens since Butler's arrival - more than anyone else in the league), Butler attacks downhill, creating scoring opportunities through contact. The result? Butler is posting a historic 121.7 points per 100 possessions in isolation since joining Golden State.
Meanwhile, Cade Cunningham has quietly developed one of the league's most devastating post games. Among players with over 100 post-ups this season, he leads everyone in efficiency at 126.8 points per 100 possessions - reminiscent of prime Shaq numbers. What makes his post game especially dangerous is his vision, passing out of the post at a league-high 23% clip and finding shooters like Malik Beasley for open threes.
The playoff picture continues to evolve with fascinating storylines emerging across the league. The Lakers have established themselves as an elite defensive unit since mid-January. The Timberwolves remain the ultimate chaos team, capable of beating or losing to anyone on any night. Denver shows concerning signs despite Jokić's continued brilliance. And under-the-radar players like Jared Allen, Keon Ellis, and Payton Pritchard could become X-factors when the postseason intensity ratchets up.
With just three weeks until playoff basketball, now's the time to follow closely as rotations tighten and strategies crystallize. Subscribe to Front Runner Podcast Collective for comprehensive playoff coverage and check out our website for our expanding NBA draft evaluations covering 60 prospects.

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