2. Shake Milton vs. Alec Burks
Brett Brown mentioned Shake Milton and Alec Burks specifically when discussing hypothetical points of comparison (and contention) on the roster. So it’s only fitting to include them here. This is a bit of a dark-horse “battle,” but Burks is someone to watch as the season resumes.
For all the praise Milton has (deservedly) received, he has only a few weeks of sustained NBA success under his belt. “Youth.” Burks is a nine-year veteran who, before the trade deadline, averaged 16.1 points per game. He’s no scrub, and it’s not unrealistic to project him — not Milton — as the Sixers’ fifth starter or sixth man, depending on Horford’s role.
I’m of the opinion Milton should start, and by extension, win this competition. But Burks has a longer resume and fills a very similar role. He can shoot at a high volume, defend his position, and create in spurts from the perimeter. With three weeks of practice to get more acclimated to Philadelphia’s system — not to mention three months to marinate in what he has already picked up — don’t be surprised if Burks sees a major spike in minutes once the season resumes.
Either way, Burks and Milton should both receive large slices of the rotational pie in Orlando. The Sixers desperately need shooters and ball-handlers to spice up a stale and stagnant halfcourt offense. Burks and Milton are the clearest source of both.
If Brown wants to run more pick-and-rolls, Burks and Milton can oblige. If Brown wants to run more off-ball actions for shooters, Burks and Milton can oblige. If Brown wants to run more DHOs, Burks and Milton can oblige. This is one of the most consequential “battles” set to take place.