Stephen A. Smith made a controversial comparison: Jimmy Butler Outshines Klay Thompson in Supporting Star Role Stephen Curry

The Golden State Warriors have undergone a significant transformation, and Jimmy Butler has emerged as a key piece in their restructured lineup. His addition to the team has prompted an intriguing debate, especially after sports commentator Stephen A. Smith made a bold claim comparing Butler’s impact to that of Klay Thompson at his peak. Smith suggested that Butler, in his current role, might be just as valuable, if not more, to Stephen Curry than Thompson once was.

Jimmy Butler’s Impact on the Warriors

While Butler’s statistical output doesn’t immediately jump off the page—he’s averaging 16.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game—his influence on both ends of the floor is undeniable. His ability to attack the basket, draw fouls, and create plays has significantly alleviated the offensive burden on Curry. The Warriors are 7-1 with Butler in the lineup, a testament to how well he has integrated into their system.

Butler’s skill set differs greatly from Thompson’s. Unlike Thompson, who is one of the greatest catch-and-shoot players in NBA history, Butler thrives in a more physical, playmaking role. His presence allows Curry to operate with more freedom, as defenses must account for Butler’s ability to drive to the rim and facilitate scoring opportunities for others. This new dynamic has reshaped how the Warriors function offensively.

Klay Thompson’s Historic Role and Contributions

Klay Thompson, a five-time NBA All-Star and three-time NBA Champion, has been an integral part of the Warriors’ dynasty. His elite shooting ability made him one of the most feared perimeter threats in the league, complementing Curry’s style of play perfectly. The famed Splash Brothers duo revolutionized the game with their three-point shooting, spacing the floor like no other backcourt in NBA history.

Thompson’s impact extended beyond scoring; his defensive prowess allowed him to guard the opposing team’s best perimeter player, giving Curry more room to focus on offense. However, injuries and age have taken a toll on Thompson, and his role has evolved as the Warriors adapt to a new era.

Stephen A. Smith’s Controversial Comparison

On ESPN’s Get Up, Stephen A. Smith made a compelling case for why Butler might be an even more valuable running mate for Curry than Thompson was at his peak.

“Jimmy Butler certainly is a surprising fit,” Smith remarked. “I just never thought he and Steph Curry would complement each other so well. In a completely different way, he benefits Curry as much as Klay Thompson once did.”

This statement sparked widespread discussion, as many view Thompson’s contributions to the Warriors’ success as irreplaceable. However, Smith’s argument hinges on the idea that Butler’s playstyle offers something unique that the current iteration of the Warriors desperately needs—an aggressive, playmaking wing who can take pressure off Curry in ways that Thompson never did.

Butler vs. Thompson: A Direct Comparison

While their playing styles differ drastically, examining the key areas where each player impacts the game provides insight into why Smith made such a comparison.

1. Scoring and Shooting

• Thompson: Elite three-point shooter (41.6% career), thrives in off-ball movement, benefits from catch-and-shoot situations.

• Butler: Mediocre three-point shooter (32.0% career), excels at attacking the rim, drawing fouls, and creating his own shot.

2. Playmaking and Facilitation

• Thompson: Limited playmaker, primarily a scorer who thrives in structured offensive sets.

• Butler: Skilled passer, capable of initiating the offense, and making plays for teammates.

3. Defense

• Thompson: Strong perimeter defender, often tasked with guarding elite opposing guards.

• Butler: Versatile defender who can guard multiple positions and disrupt offensive sets.

4. Leadership and Intangibles

• Thompson: Silent assassin, lets his game do the talking.

• Butler: Vocal leader, instills toughness and grit into his team.

How Butler’s Arrival Has Impacted Stephen Curry

Since Butler joined the Warriors, Curry’s efficiency and overall impact have remained high. With Butler handling more of the playmaking duties, Curry has been able to focus more on his off-ball movement and perimeter shooting. The spacing and defensive attention Butler commands have opened up better opportunities for Curry, who no longer has to shoulder as much of the offensive burden alone.

One of the biggest advantages Butler brings is his ability to get to the free-throw line. This is something that Thompson never excelled at. Butler’s aggression in attacking the rim forces defenses to collapse, leading to open looks for Curry and other teammates. The Warriors’ offense has benefited from this newfound dimension, making them less predictable and more dynamic.

Are the Warriors Stronger with Butler Instead of Prime Thompson?

While it’s difficult to definitively say that Butler is a better fit than Thompson in his prime, there’s no denying that he has filled a crucial role in Golden State’s current setup. The Warriors are no longer the high-flying, three-point bombing team they once were; they have had to adapt to new personnel and changing circumstances.

Butler’s toughness, defensive versatility, and ability to generate offense in multiple ways provide the Warriors with a different but equally valuable skill set. As the Warriors continue their playoff push, Butler’s contributions will be scrutinized further, and the debate over his impact compared to Thompson’s peak years will only intensify.

Conclusion: Is Stephen A. Smith Right?

Stephen A. Smith’s controversial take has sparked a fascinating discussion among NBA fans. While Jimmy Butler and Klay Thompson are vastly different players, their ability to complement Stephen Curry in unique ways makes the comparison intriguing.

Thompson’s legacy as a sharpshooter and defensive stalwart is secure, but Butler’s arrival has ushered in a new era of Warriors basketball—one that prioritizes toughness, playmaking, and a more varied offensive approach.

As the season progresses, the impact of Butler’s presence will become even clearer. If the Warriors make a deep playoff run with Curry and Butler leading the way, Smith’s prediction may hold more weight than initially expected. Until then, the debate rages on, adding another compelling chapter to the Warriors’ evolving dynasty.