Could this G League standout be on the cusp of an NBA return?

Trey Burke, the ninth overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, has had a turbulent professional career, bouncing between several teams without finding a long-term home. 

Over nine NBA seasons, Burke played for the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Dallas Mavericks. Across 498 games, he averaged 9.6 points and 3.1 assists but fell out of the league in 2022.  

Following his departure, Burke sought to reignite his career. During the 2022-23 season, he joined the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate, where he averaged 15.5 points and four assists and shot 42.4% from three-point range on nearly six attempts per game. 

He also showcased his consistency at the free-throw line, converting 90.5% of his attempts, the fourth-highest mark in the entire G League.  

Despite his strong showing, an NBA return eluded him. The Golden State Warriors reportedly expressed interest during the offseason, but Burke ultimately stayed in the G League, joining the Mexico City Capitanes for the 2023-24 campaign.  

Burke’s early performances with the Capitanes were impressive, as he averaged 19.7 points per game and shot 42.9% from beyond the arc in 11 games. 

A standout stretch in November, which included three consecutive 28-point games, seemingly caught the attention of NBA scouts. However, a season-ending injury derailed his momentum, leading to his release.  

After recovering, Burke joined Puerto Rico’s Mets de Guaynabo in July 2024 before returning to the Capitanes for the 2024-25 season.

Now 32-years-old and fully healthy, Burke has started the current season in strong fashion, averaging 28 points, 4.7 assists, and shooting 38.9% from three-point range in his first three games.  

The injury that ended his previous season appears to no longer be a concern, and Burke remains focused on earning another shot in the NBA. However, with younger options like Markelle Fultz still available in free agency, his path back to the league remains uncertain.  

Burke’s strong performances this season, though, could make him an appealing option for NBA teams seeking experience and shooting depth as the season progresses. For now, he continues to prove his capabilities in the G League.