Atlanta Hawks: 5 Observations From Hawks-Spurs

Oct 14, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer talks with guard Jeff Teague (0) in the third quarter of their game against the San Antonio Spurs at Philips Arena. The Hawks won 100-86. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

This is Jeff Teague’s team

It looks like Jeff Teague is ready to make “the leap”. Sure, he made the All-Star team last season, but this is the year the Hawks become Jeff Teague’s team. He will be the creator, the leading scorer and anything else Mike Budenholzer needs him to be. He’s the straw that stirs the drink.

It may be the preseason, but there is something different about Teague so far. He looks more confident, more steady and more in control. Perhaps I’m reading too much into this small sample of games. I don’t think I am. Teague is 27 years old, just entering his prime, and it would make sense if this is the season he takes over the role of “best player on the team” from Al Horford.

The biggest change in his game may be his willingness to attack the rim and get to the free-throw line. The transition from star to superstar usually coincides with an increased ability to get to the line. Look at Russell Westbrook or James Harden. Last night Teague showed that newfound ability.

He finished the game with 19 points, 7 of those came at the free-throw line. The 7-for-7 performance from the line came in only 25 minutes. Last season he got to the free-throw line only 4.4 times per game, a startlingly low number for a player that makes his living penetrating and finishing at the rim. He’s a career 83.9 percent free-throw shooter so anytime he’s there it’s essentially like free points for Atlanta. If he can get that number up to 6 or 7 attempts per game he will see his scoring average improve and it can only be a positive for the team.

This is Jeff Teague’s year to become the face of the Atlanta Hawks and it starts at the free-throw line.

Next: Kyle Korver is Kyle Korver Again