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Jazz: Jared Butler reflects on facing idol Chris Paul for first time

Cody Taylor
·2 min read
Jazz: Jared Butler reflects on facing idol Chris Paul for first time

Utah Jazz rookie Jared Butler had posters of Chris Paul on his wall growing up in Louisiana, so the opportunity to play the future Hall of Famer on Monday was certainly a special moment for him.

Butler and the Jazz faced Paul and the Phoenix Suns for the first time this season on Monday. They will meet once again on Wednesday in Salt Lake City with two more games set to be played on Feb. 27 and April 8 this season.

Unfortunately for Butler, the first meeting didn’t go in his favor as Paul scored a season-high 27 points to help lead the Suns to the 115-109 victory. Butler countered with 13 points and four steals off of the bench for his second game this season in double figures.

Butler was matched up on Paul on a few occasions throughout the contest, and the 40th pick even hit a 3-pointer on him during one play. The chance to face his idol, Butler said, was a dream come true.

It is one of those moments like, ‘Dang!’ He was literally on my wall growing up. He played in New Orleans. He was CP3, “Crescent City” connection. That was big for me and then hitting a 3 in his face, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh!’ It was just one of those moments in life where dreams can come true. It is a great feeling but much respect to Chris Paul.

The contest on Monday was just the 21st appearance by Butler after playing sparingly to begin the season. He has even spent time in the NBA G League with the Salt Lake City Stars but was thrust into action with six players out because of injuries.

Butler flashed his potential on Monday and showed that he can develop into a rotation player with more reps and development. He showed that he can be a good floor-spacer for the Jazz and the team will likely need that to continue with so many players out of the lineup.

Certainly, Butler will be looking to beat his idol on Wednesday.

This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!

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