The New York Knicks have signed point guard Trey Burke, but most believe he’s a long shot to make the main roster. Burke himself isn’t short on confidence.
The New York Knicks have built a solid foundation around power forward Kristaps Porzingis. With a 6’5″ point guard in Frank Ntilikina, a skilled shooter in Tim Hardaway Jr., and a pair of physical interior scorers in Willy Hernangomez and Enes Kanter, the Knicks have present-day value and long-term potential.
The landscape was recently altered, however, when the Knicks signed another point guard to the crowded rotation: Trey Burke.
Burke, 24, was selected at No. 9 overall in the 2013 NBA Draft. In the four seasons that have since passed, Burke has struggled to carve out a consistent role—a truth that isn’t discouraging him from believing in his ability to make New York’s main roster.
According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, Burke believes that he’ll defy the odds and do enough to make the cut.
"“I believe in myself. I’m looking forward to coming out here every day and proving myself. Obviously I want to make this roster. We know nothing is given. For me, my faith took me a long way. So I believe that I will make the roster even if no one else does so we’ll see what happens.”"
The odds are stacked against Burke—due in large part to the fact that he was signed late in the preseason—but it’s within the realm of possibility that he could achieve his goal.
At the point guard position, New York has two locks to make the main roster in Ron Baker and Frank Ntilikina. It also has two experienced players competing to make the 15-man cut in 12-year veteran Jarrett Jack and 10-year veteran Ramon Sessions.
Thus, while it’s fair to believe that Burke can secure a main roster spot, the context of the situation isn’t working in his favor.
Not only is Burke competing with two veterans for what may prove to be one roster spot, but he’s receiving a late start with New York having just one preseason game remaining on the schedule.
Nevertheless, Burke is confident and as plausible an option as any to make the roster. Although he’s struggled during his NBA career, talent has never been the issue with the 2013 National College Player of the Year.
The question, of course, is whether Burke will be able to prove himself to head coach Jeff Hornacek and the Knicks in just one week’s time.
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Trey Burke is facing unfavorable odds, but the New York Knicks gave him this opportunity for a reason.