Dallas Mavericks: Why Trey Burke is so important to the team

Dallas Mavericks: Similarities between bubble Burke and 2011 Barea

J.J. Barea was a solid undersized bench player for the Mavericks during the entire 2010-2011 regular season. He averaged 9.5 points and 3.9 assists in 20.6 minutes per game. Barea was a key bench player that held down the fort when the Mavericks big guns rested. The point guard was often overlooked because of his stature and undrafted status.

Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle decided to insert him into the starting lineup during games five and six of the NBA Finals. Barea played a key role in Dallas winning the title despite some not knowing him.

Trey Burke was passed on and underestimated by the rest of the league too. Burke’s ability to drive the line and make tough shots in big moments have been key to the Mavs’ first-round playoff series against the Clippers.

Barea is a better passer and a Mavericks legend. The impact he made in 2011 is similar to what Burke is doing now. Both players may dribble a bit too much, but their contributions off the bench are difference-making.

If Trey Burke can continue to make an impact, the Dallas Mavericks have a chance to upset the LA Clippers and advance to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since winning it all in 2011.