The Golden State Warriors need to consider keeping Alec Burks long-term

The Golden State Warriors need to look into keeping Alec Burks past the season’s end.

The return of Alec Burks has provided the Golden State Warriors a much-needed veteran presence in their second unit and Steve Kerr’s men have thrived offensively since coming back from injury.

Heading into the campaign Kerr believed Burks was destined for a big impact in the Bay area and so far it has been an inspired acquisition.

The former Colorado alum has averaged a strong 13.3 points a game and 4.5 rebounds while averaging over 36% from deep and just under 43% from the field with the highlights including a 28-point haul in Houston, a 18-point 9-rebound display in Minneapolis against the Timberwolves and more recently a 20-point outing against Boston.

Most significantly however, is that over the past three games the former Jazz star has averaged 18 points per game over the last six games which has alleviated the pressure on D’Angelo Russell in the absence of Steph Curry and Klay Thompson.

Burks’ ability to get to the rim, as well as knock down the open jumper, is crucial for a depleted team lacking in scoring options. Russell himself is pleased to have Burks alongside him.

"“He’s a proven scorer,” Russell said of Burks in an interview with Connor Letourneau. “I think that takes the pressure off of a lot of guys where you can go to him, and he’ll get it done.”"

The former 12th overall pick has truly emerged as a bonafide number two option in what has been a disastrous season for the Warriors, and although a shot at the playoffs is likely gone, the Dubs must do everything to keep Burks long-term.

With the hard cap restrictions ending early July 2020, the Dubs can move freely once more and could potentially offer the mid-level exception to keep Burks around as the teams look to push themselves back into championship contention.

The former Utah man could certainly be willing to stay after stating he was “proud” he made the decision to join the Warriors per Yahoo Sports.

"“I committed here for other reasons besides playing with great players,” Burks said. “I like the culture. I like Steve. I like Bob (Myers). That’s what sold me at first."

The Warriors may not be able to keep all these assets that prove themselves on this helpless team, but they must find a way to retain Burks.