Paul George Says It's Too Early To Count Out Miami Heat Because Of Jimmy Butler

Down 3-1, the Miami Heat are still within striking distance in NBA Finals against Denver Nuggets because of Jimmy Butler

The NBA playoffs have been a special thing to watch, mainly due to Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler.

Even though they head into Game 5 down 3-1 against the Denver Nuggets, Butler made sure they had a season we’ll never forget. Some may argue it’s their greatest ever, considering the odds they continue to beat.

On a recent episode of Paul George’s podcast Podcast P With Paul George, George talked about Butler and his hunger to succeed at all costs.

“He’s well-rounded and Jimmy just has this will that you can’t teach. He’s got a will to win,” George said. “Like, there’s not many guys that play at that level and have that much passion wrapped around winning. You know what I mean? And that’s really what edges him over the top. Because you watch him play and it’s not like you’re watching a crazy crossover or you’re not watching a crazy layup.”

Butler isn’t the type of player who flexes his athleticism with posterizing dunks or killer crossovers, but his personality and ability to boost his teammates is appreciated even more. He averaged 22 points this season but his confidence and unselfishness are usually the highlights.

“Like everything is just solid, like he just plays the game the right way,” George said. “Fundamentally, you know, and he just competes. Everytime you watch him on the court, it’s like ‘Okay, he wants it. Each possession, he wants it.’”

Another trait which doesn’t get talked about enough is Butler’s toughness. During the playoffs, he experienced fatigue and suffered a swollen ankle. Still, he refused to let it be an excuse and continued to perform at high levels. He helped the Heat make it this far but they’ll need more “Playoff Jimmy” if they want to win.

Cory Nelson is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He attended Northern Virginia Community College. He can be reached at corymckenzienelson@hotmail.com or follow him on Twitter @CKenzyNelson. You can also check out his personal blog HERE.