Michigan Basketball: It’s not too late for Trey Burke’s NBA career
Former Michigan basketball star Trey Burke hasn’t turned out to be the NBA player everyone hoped he would be. But, he still has time to turn it around.
When it comes to Michigan basketball players of the John Beilein era, no one quite compares to the Trey Burke.
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Burke played just two seasons for Michigan basketball, but in those two years, the Wolverines achieved great things. The 6-0 point guard won National Player of the Year and helped UM make the National Championship game in 2013.
That summer, after deciding to forgo his final two years of eligibility, Burke was a lottery pick in the NBA draft by the Utah Jazz.
During his first two seasons with Utah, the former Michigan basketball great was solid. He averaged 12.8 PPG as a rookie and followed it up by averaging 12.8 the next season. The problem, however, was his shooting percentage, as he shot 38 percent from the field as a rookie and 36 percent the season after.
In the 2015-16 season, Burke lost his starting job, but he actually seemed to play better. He still scored 10.8 per night, but was more efficient, making 41 percent of his shots and 34 percent of his 3-pointers.
But still, after failing to live up the hype of being a top-10 pick, Burke was sent packing to Washington where he would backup John Wall.
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Playing behind Wall isn’t a bad gig, but it’s not great if you want heavy minutes. And ultimately, in 57 games, Burke averaged just 12.1 minutes and 5.0 PPG. But again, his shooting numbers improved. He made 45 percent of his shots and 44 percent of his triples.
Still, the Wizards have shown no interest in bringing him back. In fact, few teams have expressed an eagerness to give Burke another chance.
But, there has been some interest, especially from the Orlando Magic, who are looking at signing him to a one-year deal. All in all, it makes sense. The Magic don’t have a great point guard situation, so why not take a chance on Burke.
Shooting and poor defense have been the main issues for Burke in the NBA, but his shooting at least, has been improving. Defensively, he just lacks quickness. But in terms of scoring, he still has potential.
Burke may never be a superstar, but his career isn’t over. Someone is going to give him a chance next season and when he gets it, he must take advantage.
Burke will probably never be a star like he was for Michigan basketball. But with one solid season, he can transform his image and keep himself in the league.
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If he succeeds, a new contract will likely await. If not, he may be out of the NBA forever and at that point, it will be fair to call him a bust. And while he looks headed down that path, it’s not too late for him to turn things around.