The 3 unsung heroes for the New York Knicks

Alec Burks has been a fantastic scorer for the Knicks

Ok serious question, how can someone dislike Alec Burks, the man is a straight hooper. If you ask him to get a bucket or even facilitate the offense for a possession, Burks will do it no questions asked.

When the Knicks gave Burks that one-year deal this November I initially thought, oh great another pointless signing that’ll only last one season.

But boy was I wrong. Alec Burks is currently shooting just over 40% from three this season which is translating to 12.6 points per game. Having these as a bench player? Sign me up.

Burks has not played since April 14th due to COVID protocols, and the Knicks have not lost during his absence. But his contributions have been missed, just tip your cap to Tom Thibodeau setting the next-man-up mentality throughout the locker room.

During this stretch where Burks has been out, I believe it’s quite clear the Knicks have missed his versatility and ability to be that “swiss army knife”.

In fact, when looking at the Knicks roster and minutes played by position, Alec Burks is the only player on the team to record minutes in four different positions. Point guard, shooting guard, small forward, and even power forward.

Now I realize his minutes at said power forward and even point guard are very limited, the fact that he still is able to switch positions is key. Like I said, a “swiss army knife”.

What else does Alec Burks bring to the table?

Playoff experience. Burks is one of five current Knicks to have been to the playoffs. As the Knicks are playing themselves into post-season basketball, this is huge.

Our top two scorers, Julius Randle and RJ Barrett, both have never been to the playoffs. So having some guys like Burks mentor RJ Barrett will be vital in any sort of success the Knicks have.