Atlanta Hawks: 3 veteran free agent targets to help playoff push

Atlanta Hawks free agent target No. 3: Rajon Rondo

With Jeff Teague likely heading for the exit in free agency, the Atlanta Hawks will need to find a replacement at the backup point guard position this offseason, and there is no better option than Rajon Rondo.

Fresh off of winning his second NBA title, Rondo’s impending value on the free agent market is sky-high. The two-time champ will unquestionably opt-out of his $2.6 million player option for next season in search of a raise, and the Atlanta Hawks should pitch him an offer.

On paper, Rondo’s numbers from this season are nothing extraordinary. The 4-time All-Star averaged 7.1 points on .418/.328/.659 shooting splits, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game across 48 appearances. The guard’s 32.8 percent shooting from behind the arc does not exactly help the Hawks in that aspect, but everything else he brings to the table does.

The 4-time All-Defensive honoree is one of the most recognizable leaders in the game today, and his veteran presence could unquestionably help the youthful Hawks. One of the highest basketball IQ players to ever play the game, bringing aboard the 34-year-old could do wonders for Atlanta’s star guard Trae Young in his development, along with the other young pieces on the roster.

Rondo is also a fantastic postseason performer, playing a pivotal role in the Los Angeles Lakers’ championship run this season. Deemed “Playoff Rondo” for his heroic postseason efforts over the years, Rondo will be in high demand this offseason, and the Hawks should be among those interested as they try to make a playoff push of their own.

It remains to be seen whether Rondo will genuinely leave Los Angeles this offseason, but if so, the Atlanta Hawks should look to aggressively pursue him.