The Utah Jazz lost to the Denver Nuggets in a blowout on Wednesday night, but rookie Alec Burks was able to receive more playing time in this game than in the season-opener, which saw him record zero points in two minutes on the court.
Burks didn't get on the court until late in 117-100 loss, playing against second- and third-teamers on the Nuggets. In 10 minutes, Burks shot 6-of-9 from the field and finished with 15 points (3-for-3 on free throws). Burks he received high praise from our Jazz blog, SLC Dunk:
Before tonight, I had thought that hopes he could be a starting point guard in this league were too optimistic. But the guy has all of the tools to be one: handles, court vision, a pull up jumper, ability to finish at the rim, and moxie.
But he'll need to replicate this kind of performance against a team's starters and sixth man. It's a question of playing time for Burks this season. Will he be able to get decent playing time in tough game situations?
For more on Burks and the Jazz, visit SLC Dunk. Head over to SB Nation NBA to stay up to date on all the news and notes around the league.