Atlanta Hawks: 5 potential free agency targets in 2018

3. Lance Stephenson

Since the Indiana Pacers elected not to pick up Lance Stephenson’s $4.3 million option, the veteran swingman/LeBron agitator will now hit the unrestricted free agency market. I expect him to sign a contract similar to the one he did in Indy last year.

Stephenson seems best suited for a backup role at this stage in his career. He wasn’t that helpful to the Pacers, as their net rating went from +5.6 to -2.9 when Stephenson was on the floor. Looking at his substandard shooting numbers (49.5 true shooting percentage), it isn’t hard to see why the team struggled when he played.

With all that being said, Stephenson has shown that he can contribute in the right situation. When he has his head on straight, he can provide toughness and playmaking to whichever team signs him.

At a cheap price, the Hawks could be a good fit for him. He would need the ball in his hands a lot since he can’t space the floor, but Stephenson has proven to be a willing and effective passer throughout his career. He could provide some quality minutes whenever Young or Huerter need a breather.

Signing a player like Stephenson is always a gamble — particularly since he can’t shoot — but the Hawks have the flexibility to take that chance.