NBA Bubble is Allowing Alec Burks to Build Better Chemistry With 76ers

Back in February, Alec Burks was thriving while coming off of the Golden State Warriors' bench. In 48 games with the Warriors, Burks was averaging a career-high of 16 points-per-game in just under 30 minutes of playing time-per-matchup.

Heading into the NBA trade deadline, Burks' name was one of the most popular as contending teams were looking for a consistent shooter to help further their chances of becoming championship contenders. And the Philadelphia 76ers landed the 28-year-old veteran by sending multiple second-round picks over to Golden State.

Before the season went on an unexpected hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Burks managed to only play in 11 games for Philly. During that time, he averaged 10 points-per-game, while shooting a disappointing 32-percent from three. There was hope that over time Burks could get comfortable in the new system and would be ready to thrive for the Sixers by the time playoffs rolled around.

But then the suspension happened. At this point, heading into the season's restart, Burks is still somewhat of a stranger to the Sixers. Fortunately, though, spending almost every day and night with his new teammates has helped the veteran shooting guard build chemistry ahead of the August 1st restart for Philly.

"It's like a summer camp down here," Burks said when describing the NBA's bubble in Orlando. "We all do all the activities together [like] golfing and fishing. It brings you back to being like a kid, in a sense. I think for me, [it has brought me closer to the team] because I haven't been here that long. I got to know the guys a little bit better being down here in this bubble doing different things. It's been great for me."

Like his fellow former Warriors teammate Glenn Robinson III, Burks feels the extended time with the 76ers has allowed him to grow closer to the team before the playoffs. While Burks is admittedly still unclear of his role with the Sixers, the nine-year veteran is confident he will have more clarity as scrimmages and the final eight games approach.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for Sports Illustrated. You can follow him on Twitter: @JGrasso_