Los Angeles Lakers: 4 point guards to target this offseason
By Dalton Sell
3. Jeff Teague
A former All-Star, the Los Angeles Lakers should target soon-to-be free agent Jeff Teague to bolster their backup point guard position. A known starter his entire career, Teague transitioned to a sixth-man role for both the Minnesota Timberwolves and Atlanta Hawks this past season, rather unfamiliar territory for him.
Statistically, Teague took a significant step back this season, having his worst year since his sophomore season in 2010-11. The 31-year-old averaged 10.9 points, 5.2 assists and 2.4 rebounds per game in his new role primarily off of the bench. Teague scored efficiently, however, as he shot 43.6 percent from the field and 36.8 from behind the arc.
The guard’s struggles relayed back to his minimized role compared to prior seasons, something he could look to change this offseason.
Teague could potentially search for a new home where he could once again become a starter, but if he is willing to keep a reserve role, the Lakers would be a perfect fit. The guard has accumulated vast amounts of experience over the years and could give the team a veteran who can score and make plays off of the bench in crucial moments.
The one problem that could arise is that Teague made $19 million this season. Although he underperformed, he could be in search of a lucrative deal the Lakers cannot afford. If he is willing to accept a reasonable deal and a role as a reserve, the fit makes sense for both parties involved.