Rookie Butler appreciative of role

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Despite only seeing scant minutes -- a late third-quarter appearance for defensive purposes -- Sunday, dont expect first-year swingman Jimmy Butler to complain about playing time. Despite his limited role this season, Butler knows that unlike most rookies, he has a great opportunity to be on a championship contender, although that doesnt mean he hasnt been paying attention to the play of his draft-class peers.

Iman Shumpert, a starting guard for the Knicks and Chicago-area native is playing really well. Brandon Knight, the Pistons starting point guard is playing really well. Kyrie Irving, the top overall pick in the 2011 draft, he told CSNChicago.com. All those guys are playing well and theyre doing a lot of different things for their teams, but I like my role on this team. Were winning. We want to win the championship, so Ill take the position Im in any day.

Shumpert doesnt get the acclaim Clevelands Irving, the frontrunner for top-rookie honors, receives, but Butlers been impressed with his play, especially because hes playing a vital role for a playoff contender.

Observed Butler: He comes in and does what hes supposed to do. Hit open shots, create for others, rebound and defend. Imans my guy and I think he plays extremely hard and hes a really, really good player.

Overhearing the conversation, Korver interjected: Jimmys learning pro habits thatll keep him in the league for a long time.

Indeed, the Marquette product has already found a niche as a defensive stopper, having done an admirable job, albeit in short minutes against the likes of Knicks All-Star Carmelo Anthony and while his outstanding work ethic hasn't yet been rewarded in significant playing time, both the coaching staff and front office -- not to mention his teammates -- remain high on him for the future.

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