Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Caron Butler had two excellent games for the Los Angeles Clippers at home to open the NBA West series against the Memphis Grizzlies. But Butler realizes it won’t be easy expanding that lead against the Grizzlies, who planned on going all out in game 3 to make this a competitive series.
It’s a series that could go down to seven games. If it does, Butler is a strong veteran player who can give the Clippers tremendous help down the stretch and be a calming influence on the team’s younger players.
He doesn’t make many mistakes and that’s what the Clippers are looking for from a player like Butler. He has had one turnover in each of his past three games prior to game 3 at Memphis. He also seems to be making smart decisions with the ball. In the last regular-season game a week ago at the Sacramento Kings, Butler was 4-of-8 from the floor and 3-of-4 in 3-pointers for 11 points. He was 6-of-9 in game 1 against Memphis and 1-of 3 in 3-pointers for 13 points. He also had seven huge rebounds.
In the second game against Memphis, Butler was 4-of-6 in shooting for nine points. He was able to help the Clippers keep that all important home court advantage.
Butler is playing only half the game in his most recent outings but the Clippers continue to get valuable efforts from Butler who thrives on the challenges presented by the playoffs. He’s hopeful of a long postseason and is doing his part in making that possible.
