Even so, the Warriors have noticed a stark positive change with Butler in the group, starting with head coach Steve Kerr saying Butler brings an "it" factor and energy he now recognizes they needed.

Their contracts are all aligned. The goal is clear. And on Saturday, the Warriors and Jimmy Butler began the honeymoon.

Even as Butler admittedly out of game shape and hasn’t had a practice to learn Golden State’s plays, he has scored 45 points in two contests. He’s gotten to the line for 28 foul shots, which has ripple effects in itself.