Dallas Mavericks: 5 unsolicited suggestions for coach Rick Carlisle

Suggestion for Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle: 1. More pick and rolls for Burke

There’s a Maverick averaging more points per possession as the pick and roll ball-handler than superstars Kyrie Irving, Jayson Tatum, and Kevin Durant. It’s not Luka or KP. It’s bubble hero Trey Burke.

Burke has a storied history with the Mavericks. He was acquired as a throw-in piece of the Porzingis trade with the Knicks. Dallas decided not to re-sign Burke following a solid second half to the 2018-2019 season. Burke was cut by Philadelphia before returning to the Mavs for their bubble run last season.

In Orlando, Burke proved his potential as a spark-plug scorer and playmaker. Through ten games this season, the former Michigan Wolverine is one of six Mavericks averaging double-digit points per game. He’s played an important role as a fire-starter whenever Dallas needs instant offense.

Burke could be even more effective for the Mavericks than he has been so far. He’s currently in the top 80th percentile in scoring out of the pick and roll.

Despite his effectiveness attacking off of screens, Burke hasn’t been given enough opportunity to work. Through ten games, the point guard is averaging only 3.5 possessions per game as the primary pick and roll ball-handler.

Considering the significant drop off in efficiency from the Dallas Mavericks offense from last season, Rick Carlisle needs to find more scoring wherever he can get it. A quick-fix is getting more pick and roll chances for Trey Burke.