Hailed as one of the best players in Europe, could Milos Teodosic play in the NBA?
They might not be known internationally, but CSKA Moscow is one of the best basketball teams in the world. Winners of the Euroleague last year, CSKA boasts a very quality backcourt. It’s easily the best backcourt in Europe — a backcourt that could possibly play in the NBA.
The duo of Nando de Colo and Milos Teodosic was fantastic last year. They averaged 19.4 and 16.1 points per game, respectively, and were a dominant duo. While de Colo won the honors of Euroleague MVP, Teodosic was just as valuable.
He is the main ballhandler for CSKA and helps get the offense into their sets. Averaging almost six assists per game last season, Teodosic was able to create plays for his teammates while getting his own shot as well.
Teodosic was extremely valuable in the Euroleague final in CSKA’s win over Fenerbache. He tallied 19 points, seven assists and five rebounds in the final, with all of those coming off the bench.
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Last season was his best one as a pro. His play last year also opens the possibility that NBA teams could be giving him a look.
If NBA teams do choose to go after Teodosic, it won’t be the first time that has happened. According to ESPN, back in 2013, the Memphis Grizzlies reportedly offered him a contract. Teosodic turned it down for a chance to play with CSKA Moscow.
The contract was reportedly worth around $5 million, and it’s safe to say he is going to get paid more if he comes to the NBA now.
Teosodic also impressed in the 2016 Rio Olympics, helping Serbia nearly upset the United States in group play. He scored 18 points, hitting five three-pointers and assisting six times. Teosodic’s play against the guards of Team USA showed his talent.
It was impressive to see how he was able to make a solid impact against the world’s best point guards.
Teosodic can offer a solid backup solution to many NBA teams. He is a very efficient player, posting an effective field goal percentage of 50 or better for the past five years straight. Posting a three-point percentage of 42 and shooting 88 percent from the line last year further proves that Teosodic can score. Plus, he comes off the bench for CSKA Moscow, so his role really won’t change a whole lot in the NBA.
He is getting better each year and is still in the prime of his career. The only problem is his contract.
The way his contract is structured leaves very little room for him to get out in terms of leaving for the NBA. Teosodic’s contract expires in 2017 and he will be 31 that time. But that won’t affect his chances of making the NBA if he chooses to explore the association. That is the same problem with De Colo, who signed a three-year extension with CSKA this offseason .
After his performance in Euroleague and in the Olympics, NBA teams will be waiting for him in 2017.
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Milos Teosodic has never played in the NBA before. He chose the European route back in 2013 but who knows what will happen if NBA teams coming knocking again?