Dallas Mavericks: Trey Burke shows he is always ready to contribute

The Dallas Mavericks dropped another crushing game to the Sacramento Kings on April 26. They got off to an awful start as the Kings led 20-3 midway through the first quarter. The Mavs were listless early and short-handed in Sacramento. Kristaps Porzingis, Josh Richardson, J.J. Redick, and Tyrell Terry were out, but the team’s lack of energy was disappointing, especially considering the Kings were on the second night of a back-to-back.

Dallas cut the deficit to 31-17 to close the opening period, but they needed a spark. Coach Rick Carlisle decided to call on Trey Burke. The guard was fantastic during the bubble, but had not played a single minute in the Mavericks’ last six games. Fans know the veteran can fill it up, though.

Burke went off against the Kings to get Dallas back in the game. He finished with 19 points, two rebounds, five assists, and one steal on eight of 14 shooting from the field. It was not enough as Sacramento won 113-106 on their home floor, but the veteran guard proved he is always ready. Here is a closer look at his performance and what it could mean going forward.

Dallas Mavericks guard Trey Burke takes advantage of opportunity in loss to Kings

Burke came out white-hot in the second quarter. He hit everything and helped get the Mavs back in the game. See one of his three 3-point makes in the period below.

Burke had 15 points on nine field-goal attempts in the second quarter. He was getting open and connecting. It was impressive considering he had not played since April 12.

The 28-year-old is always ready. He could be a key game-changer for the Mavericks in the playoffs. Coach Carlisle does a similar thing down low with Boban Marjanovic. They can change the pace and fortune of the team at a moment’s notice.

The starters were outscored significantly when they were on the floor against the Kings. Trey Burke and the bench group changed the game to give Dallas a chance to win, but it was not enough.

The Dallas Mavericks will not have to wait long to bounce back. They play in Oakland against the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night. It will be no easy game against the red hot Stephen Curry. The Mavs will need a massive performance from Luka Doncic if they are going to have a chance on April 27. Do not miss it.