There is a real possibility that Jeff Teague already has his free-agent destination selected and ready. On Friday afternoon, hours before the official start of free agency, the Timberwolves traded Ricky Rubio to the Jazz for a first-round pick. This trade not only ended years of Rubio being on the trade block, but it opened up a spot in Minnesota's starting lineup.
One of the players that could take that spot is Teague. According to Sam Amick of USA Today, Teague is a heavy favorite to sign with Minnesota once the free agency period hits. His ability to play off-ball and shoot from distance would theoretically fit in to Minnesota's system better than Rubio did.
Updated intel on Minnesota front: expectation from folks who would know is that Jeff Teague is heavy, heavy favorite with T-Wolves.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) June 30, 2017
Additionally, ESPN's Marc Stein indicates that league sources are "convinced" that Teague will sign with the Timberwolves.
The Knicks have abandoned their hopes of meeting with Jeff Teague, league sources say, convinced Teague has already committed to Minnesota
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) June 30, 2017
If Teague does end up signing with Minnesota, it would be on a 3-year deal worth $55 million, per Marc Stein. These numbers, however, are not official yet.
The unconfirmed estimate making the rounds on Jeff Teague's expected deal with Minnesota: $55 million over three years
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) July 1, 2017
Teague is coming off one of the best seasons of his career, efficiency wise. He had a career-high true shooting percentage and showcased his ability to play without the ball in his hands, which was always a big question mark about him. Minnesota could be moving toward an offense that has its point guard play off-ball so this could be a very good fit for him.
Teague wouldn't be the worst Rubio replacement for Minnesota, but it would be odd considering there are players like George Hill and Kyle Lowry available. Those are two players that the Wolves should heavily explore before signing a potentially expensive Teague.
