Jeff Teague is the kind of player the Atlanta Hawks need: a young player with a nice upside. Teague has demonstrated flashes of NBA talent during his short career. Now that he is getting the opportunity to play significant minutes, Teague is delivering.

In his recent start against the Portland Trail Blazers Teague came up big with 24 points, five steals, four rebounds, and three assists. He even blocked three shots, impressive as a point guard. His successive stat lines have not been as stout, so you know that Teague was amped up for his big start. Nevertheless, in the Hawks last game vs. the Miami Heat, Teague posted 13 points and six assists.

Let’s face the truth that the Hawks will not make any noise in the playoffs this year. They struggle big time against the Orlando Magic, their likely first round opponent.

Those playoff games and the last thirteen games of the season are meaningful games though, and Teague should be given every opportunity to lead this team at the point. The Hawks need young talented players for the future. Teague’s ability to shoot and create off the dribble fit the mold the Hawks need at the point.