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By Sai Mohan
Jeff Teague
The aggressive guard is elated about his trade to hometown franchise Indiana Pacers. But could Jeff Teague turn down a recruitment pitch from Gregg Popovich next summer?
Teague, an unrestricted free agent next year, thrived during his last three seasons under Atlanta Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer, a protege of Popovich.
When Budenholzer moved to Atlanta, Teague became the primary ball-handler and decision-maker, a luxury that he wasn’t afforded under previous coach Larry Drew.
Last season, Teague attacked the rim 11.1 times per game, which ranked fifth in the league among all guards. During his time playing for Drew, Teague never drew more than 91 shooting fouls per season.
Under Budenholzer, Teague drew more than 120 shooting fouls all three seasons.
Popovich would give Teague the freedom to dribble-penetrate and attack defenses. Also, Teague is an underrated defender and would help the Spurs contain the all-star point guards out West.
Budenholzer ran a very similar playbook to what Popovich runs in San Antonio. For Teague, the transition would be seamless.
As of now, it seems Teague’s heart is set in Indiana.
"“I always wanted to play for the Pacers. To have an opportunity like this is big for me. I’m trying to make the most of this year and, hopefully, be here a long time. I would love to spend the rest of my career here. This is the best basketball city. I’ve been a Pacers fan for years and now my dream has come true.”"
According to The Vertical, the Pacers could sign Teague to an extension before next summer
Indiana has plans to work on signing Teague to a contract extension, league sources tell @TheVertical.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 22, 2016
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