NBA Mock Draft 2013: Predicting the First 10 Picks

7. Sacramento Kings: Trey Burke, Michigan (PG)

Age: 20 (Sophomore)

Height/Weight: 6’1″/187 lbs.

Apr 8, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Peyton Siva (3) hugs Michigan Wolverines guard Trey Burke (3) after Louisville won during the championship game in the 2013 NCAA mens Final Four at the Georgia Dome. Louisville Cardinals won 82-76. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Trey Burke had an incredible sophomore campaign. He improved almost every statistic by a minimum of 20 percent from his freshman year in addition to having a 6’5 wingspan that in part redeems his small 6’1″ frame. He’s a decent athlete, able to escape defenders pretty well while displaying above-average speed. Additionally, his efficiency rates are up, having cut his turnovers by roughly 35 percent this past season. Despite that, he’s not terribly explosive around the basket.

What makes him a great prospect is where he took his team this year–The National Championship. He was the National Player of the year in every category. He’s an excellent shooter. He’s a fantastic ball handler. In addition, he’s highly skilled and creative with his passes. One thing he lacked in comparatively, and that is cause for concern in the NBA, is his finishing ability in the paint, which may also stem from his undersized nature. His defense also leaves something to be desired.

Despite those shortcomings, he’s hands down the best point guard in this draft, something that can really help out the Kings, who were unfortunately the only team in California not to send a team to the playoffs this year. With a creative, fast and skilled leader on the court, it’s hard to see them not making some leaps and bounds forward this year, especially if Burke manages to improve on his defense.