New York Knicks: Players Phil Jackson Needs to Trade For
Jeff Teague, Atlanta Hawks
Position: Point Guard
Age: 27
2015-16 Salary: $8,000,000
Contract Expires: 2017
Slash Line: .432/.408/.849
Season Averages: 28.6 MPG, 15.1 PPG, 5.5 APG, 2.7 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 1.2 3PM
The New York Knicks have been targeting Atlanta Hawks point guard Jeff Teague for the better part of the 2015-16 NBA regular season. Despite having limited trade assets, Phil Jackson remains persistent in his pursuit of the 2015 All-Star.
According to Marc Stein and Brian Windhorst of ESPN, the Knicks are still interested in trading for Teague with the trade deadline looming.
"The Knicks, who also strongly covet Teague in their search for a front-line point guard, are trying their best to get a team interested in Jose Calderon and the $7.7 million owed to the Spaniard next season. Sources say New York is talking up Calderon’s leadership qualities and, in some cases, offering to include big man Kyle O’Quinn to sweeten proposals."
It’s highly unlikely that Atlanta would take Calderon as compensation for Teague, but it’s an intriguing possibility nonetheless.
Teague is one of the more well-rounded point guards in the modern NBA. He’s an efficient shooter and solid facilitator whose speed in the open court and quickness off the bounce make him one of the most dynamic offensive assets in the Association.
Also a solid defender who can help prevent penetration, Teague would be the perfect fit for the Knicks’ adaptation of the Triangle Offense.
At a very affordable $8 million, Teague’s 2016-17 cap hit wouldn’t be much of a concern. He’s worth the money. and would be far more affordable than the point guards who will be paid this coming summer under the rising salary cap.
Not only should Jackson pursue Teague, but he reportedly has the Hawks star at the very top of his list.