2018 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far
Tyreke Evans: 1 year, $12 million (Indiana Pacers)
After cutting Lance Stephenson, the Indiana Pacers needed some secondary scoring and playmaking on the wing. Though it’ll come at nearly three times the cost as keeping Born Ready, landing Tyreke Evans on a one-year deal is a terrific move as the team looks to improve on its surprising 2017-18 campaign.
Though he’s 28 and has dealt with his fair share of injuries, Evans had a career year in Memphis last season, averaging a well-rounded 19.4 points, 5.2 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game on impressive .452/.399/.785 shooting splits. Though the Grizzlies were one of the worst teams in the NBA, the fact that he was often the best player on a roster that included Marc Gasol is nothing to scoff at.
Evans can play multiple positions on both ends of the floor, and if his 3-point shooting holds up, the Pacers will have upgraded their wing depth. Even if Reke’s game somehow completely falls off after leaving Memphis, Stephenson wasn’t the most consistent option either, and Evans’ deal will simply come off the books next summer. For a young team looking to carry forward its momentum while still staying flexible, a deal like this is a win-win.
Bourguet Grade: A
Hoops Habit Grade: A+