Adapting to a new team and a new system usually takes some time, which is no different for Jimmy Butler and the Philadelphia 76ers. The swingman is approaching a full month with the Sixers, and he knows that he needs more reps before he completely feels comfortable. Butler told Josh Lewenberg of TSN Sports:

“I'm still learning, putting in the time. The more reps I can get out here the better I'll be at it. It definitely is different, I'm not gonna lie to you, but it's working right now.”

It's definitely working for the Sixers, even if Butler isn't completely comfortable in the new system. The Sixers are sitting pretty at 17-8 and in third place in the Eastern Conference. Furthermore, Philly is 8-2 with Butler on the court. The All-Star's numbers have taken a slight dip since his arrival in Philly, but he's playing fewer minutes and shooting at a higher percentage.

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Butler will take the slight dip in box score stats as long as Philly is winning at an impressive rate. After all, that's really what motivated Butler's decision to force his way off the Minnesota Timberwolves. Now he's playing in the weaker Eastern Conference with two budding superstars.

The Sixers are a definite contender in the East with Butler, Joel Embiid, and Ben Simmons leading the way. Moreover, if Butler settles into the new system and starts playing even better, the Sixers will be a tough out in a seven-game series.