Alec Burks has stepped up for the Knicks when they need him the most

In his last three games, Burks has scored in double figures in each of them, and is averaging 17.3 points while shooting 53% from the field and 50% from three-point distance. Finally, the Knicks can feel like the Alec Burks of the old has returned, as he has come through and provided them with essential minutes over the course of this series.

After Game 5 Tuesday, head coach Tom Thibodeau spoke about the resurgence of Burks and how he handled racking up DNPs until now, calling him “the ultimate pro.”

“I’m not surprised. He’s had a terrific career and I think he’s got a lot left in the tank,” said Thibodeau in his postgame press conference (h/t SNY).

Burks becoming a reliable bench option for the Knicks is massive going forward if they envision making a run at the NBA Finals. If or when Anunoby is able to return to the floor, Burks may be able to keep his spot in the rotation off the bench if he continues to play at this level, which will also be huge for a Knicks team that is already missing Julius Randle, Bojan Bogdanovic, and Mitchell Robinson.

“He’s a true professional. He’s someone who’s staying ready,” Josh Hart said after the game (h/t SNY) You see him every day working hard, getting shots up, getting his work in. That’s what pros do.”