Adding on to the list of roster uncertainties for the Hawks is Jeff Teague. As the early season deadline passed by, the combo guard out of Wake Forest became set to be a restricted free agent in the upcoming off season. This development further illuminates a plan by the Hawks’ front office (particularly general manager Danny Ferry) to clear as much cap space as possible. With the books in mind, Atlanta aims to be a major player next off season.
” It is a move that could end up costing Atlanta more in the long run should Teague further improve his game this season. However, at this point, it looks like it is a gamble that Ferry and the Hawks are willing to take.”
Via SB Nation.
After playing behind Kirk Hinrich for his rookie and sophomore years, Teague started to show steady improvement as he was granted up to 33 minutes per game. As a result, he improved from 5 ppg in the 2010-2011 season to 12.6 ppg the following year. It would be safe to assume that a cut back in minutes would hinder Teague’s further improvement. To note, he is now starting with Lou Williams as the 2nd string PG. Because of Williams’ knock-down shooting, Teague might find himself in a more even split, perhaps slowing his improvement, if not altogether stalling it.
Just as possible is Teague breaking out into a career season. The 6’2″, 1801 lbs combo guard is a good athlete. He is also learning to slow the game down for himself, increasing his assists rate while lowering his career turnover rate. If he were to have an eye-opener of a season, the Hawks would be pressed to match some lofty offer sheets.
Mohamed Abdihakim is a journalism student at Florida Atlantic University. He is a Phoenix Suns fan, who is not prepared for the possibility of Nash winning a title in a Lakers jersey. Mohamed is also a contributor at “Les Snobs”. Interests include International basketball, Mad Men, and blues music. Nearly all stats are credited to Hoopdata or Basketball-Reference.
Twitter handle: @Abdi_hakim
