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Minnesota Timberwolves: Jimmy Butler’s go-to scoring guide

By Brian Sampson

Dec 13, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) attempts to pass the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the first half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) attempts to pass the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the first half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 12, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) reacts during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 12, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) reacts during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Turnaround jumper

Jimmy Butler’s turnaround jumper is simultaneously amazing and horrendous at the same time.

On the one hand, he has the footwork and strength to get this shot off anywhere from the block to the 3-point line, making sure defenders are constantly aware it might be coming.

On the other hand, it’s one of the least efficient moves in his tool belt. Because of that, it’s probably a good thing that he doesn’t rely on it very often.

According to NBAsavant.com, Butler only made 9 of 29 turnaround jumpers from 12 feet and out last year. That put’s him at 31 percent shooting, far below his season average of 45.5 percent. If we count all of his turnarounds, even those closer to the basket, his percentage rises significantly to 41.1 percent.

Unlike the video below, most of Butler’s turnarounds came from the right side of the court. In fact, most of his shots, in general, came from that side of the floor. However, on this play, he attempts to take advantage of a size mismatch, with the smaller Russell Westbrook on him.

Some might say Butler settled for this shot and I would have to agree. He ends up attempting a fadeaway turnaround jumper over his right shoulder, the most difficult shoulder for a right-handed shooter. There’s a reason that only two players in the last 25 years are known for this shot.

To start, Butler’s positioning is way off. he catches the ball a lot higher than he wants. Ideally, he would catch the ball on the block. Because of this, he tries to power dribble his way to that block. It’s unsuccessful however as Westbrook doesn’t give up very much ground.

Due to that, Butler quickly counters and spins towards the baseline. He also steps back with his left foot instead of bringing it closer to his lead foot. If he would have brought it closer to his lead foot, it would have allowed Butler to not fade away so much on his shot. I’m sure Butler opted to fade on this turnaround because of Westbrook’s elite athleticism. However, it ended up making the shot that much more difficult for Butler, resulting in a clank off the back of the iron.

This result was typical for Butler as his shooting percentages show. Although, he was inclined to the occasional difficult turnaround from the 3-point line that resulted in a made shot.