As I watch the NBA season unfold, I keep finding myself drawn to veteran players who've been written off too soon. Alec Burks falls squarely into this category, and frankly, I believe he's being undervalued by many analysts. When I look at his career trajectory and current situation, I see a player who still has plenty to offer, especially when you consider how the league has evolved toward versatile scoring guards. Let me explain why I'm convinced Burks can still make a meaningful impact this season, drawing from my years of observing how players adapt their games as they mature.
The modern NBA places tremendous value on players who can create their own shot while maintaining defensive flexibility, and this is precisely where Burks excels even at this stage of his career. I've tracked his performance metrics closely, and what stands out to me is his consistency from beyond the arc. Last season, he connected on 38.7% of his three-point attempts while taking nearly six per game – numbers that would make him a valuable rotation piece for virtually any contender. His ability to space the floor isn't just theoretical either; I've noticed how defenses still have to account for him whenever he's on the perimeter, which creates driving lanes for his teammates. This kind of gravity doesn't just disappear because a player reaches his early thirties.
What really convinces me about Burks' continued relevance is watching how similar players have aged in today's NBA. Players like JJ Redick and Kyle Korver actually improved their efficiency well into their mid-thirties by mastering their movement and shot selection. Burks brings something extra though – he's more capable of putting the ball on the floor than either of those specialists ever were. I recall a game last season where he scored 24 points against Boston, including several tough contested shots that demonstrated his creation ability hasn't diminished. These moments matter because playoff basketball often devolves into isolation scenarios where you need someone who can get a bucket when sets break down.
Now, I know some critics point to his defensive limitations, but here's where I think they're missing crucial context. While Burks will never make an All-Defensive team, he's developed into a competent team defender who understands positioning and rotations. His length – he's got a 6'10" wingspan – allows him to be more disruptive than his reputation suggests. Just last month, I was reviewing some advanced tracking data that showed he held opponents to 42.3% shooting when he was the primary defender, which is actually quite respectable for a scoring guard. He's never going to lock down elite wings, but in the right system that can hide him defensively while maximizing his offensive strengths, he remains a net positive.
Let me draw a parallel to that impressive performance from Alvano – 28 points, six rebounds, five assists, and four steals – because it illustrates exactly the kind of stat line Burks is still capable of producing on any given night. I've seen Burks put up similar numbers throughout his career, and what stands out isn't just the scoring but the all-around contribution. Those four steals in particular remind me that veterans often develop better anticipation as they age, compensating for any lost athleticism with smarter positioning. When Burks is engaged defensively, he can create those same kinds of transition opportunities that swing games.
The financial aspect matters too, and here's where my perspective might surprise you. At around $10 million annually, Burks represents what I consider tremendous value in today's inflated market. Compare his production to players making similar money, and you'll find he consistently outperforms his contract. I've analyzed the cap situations for several potential contenders, and Burks' expiring deal provides both immediate production and future flexibility – a rare combination that front offices covet. This isn't just theoretical; multiple executives I've spoken with privately acknowledge they'd love to add someone with his skill set at that price point.
I'll admit I have something of a soft spot for players who reinvent themselves as their careers progress. Burks has transitioned from a high-usage starter earlier in his career to an efficient reserve who can play both backcourt positions. This versatility becomes increasingly valuable during the marathon of an NBA season when injuries inevitably occur. I remember last February when Detroit was dealing with multiple backcourt absences, and Burks stepped in to average 18.4 points over a ten-game stretch while maintaining a 58.2% true shooting percentage. That's the kind of professional readiness that coaches dream about from their veterans.
Where I potentially diverge from conventional wisdom is in how I believe Burks should be utilized. Many see him strictly as a bench scorer, but I'm convinced he could still start for several playoff teams in the right context. Imagine him alongside a dominant ball-handler like Luka Dončić or LeBron James – the spacing he'd provide would be invaluable, and he wouldn't need to create much off the dribble. His catch-and-shoot numbers are particularly impressive; he converted 41.2% of those opportunities last season according to the tracking data I reviewed last week. That's elite-level efficiency that any offense could utilize.
The narrative around aging players often focuses on what they've lost rather than what they've gained, and I think this does Burks a disservice. His basketball IQ has noticeably improved over the years – he makes quicker decisions, turns the ball over less frequently, and understands situational basketball better than ever. These subtle developments matter tremendously in high-leverage moments. I've watched him closely in fourth quarters, and he rarely forces bad shots or makes the kind of mental mistakes that plague younger players. This veteran savvy can't be quantified easily in traditional stats, but coaches recognize it immediately.
Looking at the broader landscape of the NBA, the continued importance of shooting tells me Burks will remain relevant. The league average for three-point percentage has hovered around 36% for several seasons now, and Burks has consistently outperformed that mark throughout his career. Even if his athleticism declines slightly, his shooting mechanics are so sound that I expect his efficiency to remain high. The best shooters often age gracefully because their skill isn't dependent on explosive athleticism. Ray Allen was still a dangerous weapon at 38, and while I'm not comparing Burks to a Hall of Famer, the principle remains the same.
As we approach the trade deadline and playoff push, I'm keeping a close eye on where Burks might land. Contenders are always looking for shooting, and his expiring contract makes him an attractive target. From my conversations around the league, I know several teams have expressed interest, though nothing appears imminent. Wherever he ends up, I'm confident he'll provide value. The NBA has always had room for specialists who excel in specific roles, and Burks' combination of shot creation and spacing is exactly what modern offenses crave. He may not be the flashiest name available, but sometimes the most impactful moves are the subtle ones that address specific needs without disrupting chemistry.
Ultimately, my assessment comes down to this: basketball value isn't always about star power or highlight-reel athleticism. Sometimes it's about reliable professionals who understand their roles and execute with consistency. Alec Burks fits this description perfectly. He may not single-handedly transform a franchise, but he can absolutely help good teams become better – and in a league where margins are razor-thin, that contribution matters more than many realize. As the season progresses, don't be surprised when Burks quietly becomes an important piece for a team making a serious playoff run. I've seen this story before with veterans who were prematurely counted out, and they often have a way of reminding everyone why they've lasted so long in this demanding league.
