Los Angeles Lakers: 5 reasons why Jeff Teague is a nice fallback option

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 06: Jeff Teague #00 of the Atlanta Hawks dribbles against the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on March 06, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

3. Jeff Teague will be easier to get than other point guards, especially Chris Paul

Many Lakers fans are dreaming of a legit Big 3 with the addition of Chris Paul. While it’s very tempting for most (including myself), he comes with significant risks.

Besides his injury history, he’s owed over $40 million next season, which means the Lakers would have to almost gut their team for him.

In addition, other teams, such as the Milwaukee Bucks and perhaps the Los Angeles Clippers, will have better trade assets to offer the Oklahoma City Thunder for Paul.

Teague, on the other hand, will be a free agent once free agency starts this offseason. That means the Lakers could simply sign him, instead of having to compete against other suitors with their limited trade assets.

Also, the Lakers can use their assets to go after someone else, such as a 3-and-D wing or an instant offense guy off the bench.

At the end of the day, do you really think it’s wise to take on a $40 million a year contract to get a guy who’s a great player but not a superstar, who will turn 36 next season and can start declining precipitously at any time?

Teague may not be as good a player as Paul, but he can bring the Lakers enough of what they need at the guard spot to repeat as NBA champs.

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