1. Alec Burks is that dude
Alec Burks averaged 16.1 points per game before arriving in Philadelphia. He’s no slouch, and never has been. And, despite initial hesitance to lean on Burks, it appears the Sixers will gladly unleash Burks in the postseason. He has done everything necessary to cement his spot in Brett Brown’s final nine-man group — especially in the absence of Ben Simmons.
The Sixers have a stark lack of shot creators on the roster. Tobias Harris can effortlessly attack closeouts and exploit mismatches in the post, but he’s not an isolation scorer. He’s not someone you dump it to and clear out for. The same can be said for Josh Richardson, who works best as a secondary creator and scorer from the wing.
Burks is the only perimeter player in the rotation who can consistently create his own offense. He doesn’t need a screen, he doesn’t need a step. He can use handles and sheer willpower to eek out space and hit difficult shots. The Sixers need someone of that variety.
This is not to say Burks is without serious flaws. He’s not the sharpest decision-maker, and his hot scoring streaks will often bump up against cold spells. Such is the life of a bucket-getter. Still, the Sixers need someone to boost the halfcourt offense when Brett Brown’s system stagnates. Burks has proven himself the perfect medicine.
At 6-foot-6, Burks is also a solid defender who takes individual assignments seriously. He’s not a severe liability in any one area, which is important for a potentially significant contributor in the postseason. Burks is, for all intents and purposes, Philadelphia’s sixth man at this point.
On Tuesday, Burks tied a career-long streak of three consecutive games of 20+ points. He’s showing out when the Sixers need it most, and that momentum could prove critical in a tight first-round series. The Sixers have matchup advantages against Boston, but we have seen the halfcourt offense sputter in the past.
To keep it brief, expect Burks to continue getting significant minutes. He’s the real deal.
Also deserving of recognition is Kyle O’Quinn, who tallied nine points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists. His willingness to stay ready and to serve as a leadership figure despite documented unhappiness with his situation is admirable.