The New Orleans Pelicans may have an interest in drafting Michigan point guard Trey Burke with the 2013 NBA Draft on the horizon, according to The Times-Picayune.
Presumably, the Pelicans are trying to go in a new direction since the loss of Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2010.
One of those stepping stones to rebuilding the now-struggling franchise would be to draft a permanent point guard replacement for Paul, and the Pelicans may find their new floor general in Burke.
Pelicans General Manager Dell Demps has been tight-lipped as to New Orleans draft plans, however according to Picayune’s sources, the team would be interested in Burke if he remains on the board until their number six selection.
“Sources say the Pelicans like Burke because he has the potential to get them in their offensive sets quicker and he could provide more versatility in their backcourt that could include starting point guard Greivis Vasquez playing off the ball,” according to the Picayune’s report.
Burke is arguably the most polished prospect in this year’s rather weak draft and he would be a valuable difference-maker for the Pelicans.
Burke is one of the better shooters in the draft, as he averages 18.6 points per game on 46 percent shooting. In addition, he is also a serviceable passer, with an average of 6.7 assists per game. He also has a good perimeter game in his arsenal as well.
Burke would be a low risk-high reward option for the Pelicans, and may have the skill set to become a franchise player within a few seasons.
If New Orleans were to ultimately select Burke on draft night, the Pelicans may be able to compete for a playoff berth in the next two seasons.
It remains to be seen what Demps and the rest of the Pelicans’ brass will do come the draft, but drafting the former Michigan Wolverine would be the smartest decision.
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