2021-2022 ROSTER TALK: [ARCHIVED]

[dirkfansince1998]

This. I have never understood the Burke hatred. 

Sure, immediately after balling out in the bubble and receiving the contract, he was tried as a rotation player briefly and didn't perform. No argument. That was disappointing. But, he has veteran-level skill and experience, and (this is important) he's able to come off of the deep bench only when needed and DOES NOT bitch up the locker room about why he's not getting more of a chance. He's grateful for the role, and frankly, he's overqualified for it. Heck, he has been GOOD in that role this year. I'm having trouble remembering a Burke sighting that I didn't think was a positive for the past season. 

Kudos to Kidd for giving Green a chance down the stretch - that worked out great for the team, and for his development.

Kudos to Kidd for recognizing that Green was in over his head in the PHX series and giving Ntilikina a chance instead - that worked out great for the team, and for his development.

But, when BOTH of those guys floundered against GS in the WCF, and when the problem was so clearly that the Mavs couldn't score, I honestly think giving Burke those minutes might've helped. 

I'm fine with Burke here in the role he has. I think it's kind of a luxury, even.

Roster spots are an asset as well. And Burke is one of the Mavs worst players (in my opinion the worst fully guaranteed). He was out of the league for a reason. Not sure what you saw this season but selective memory is probably impacting all of us. I have a hard time remembering a single useful Burke minute this season. I think there are unsigned free agents and undrafted players that can give the Mavs more than 5pts on 39%FG / 32% from 3 / 48% TS. We actually saw hardship signings like Knight in the same role. Clearly outperforming Burke.
But even more important. He has no upside. Would rather give a younger player an opportunity. Or if the Mavs want a veteran. Go for a player that actually has experience on the biggest stage. Burke played a grand total of three playoff games (20min total) before he joined the Mavs. Vet by name and number of years in the league only.