Out of all of the free agents this summer the one with the biggest question mark is Lance Stephenson. There’s no doubt in anyones mind Stephenson can play, and he’s still developing in the league . The real question surrounding the free agent shooting guard is how much to pay him in free agency. Stephenson averaged 13 PPG 7 REB and 4 AST while shooting 49% from the field last season, while progressing each year he’s been in the league. Stephenson plays both sides of the ball well, but the biggest weakness he has would be…himself. We saw all of Lance’s antics in The Eastern Conference Finals, which showed he still had maturing to do. Pacers President and NBA Legend Larry Bird was displeased with those antics as well last year.
Stephenson is drawing interest from The Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, and some interest from The Mavericks. Early on in free agency Stephenson turned down a 5 year deal worth $44 million dollars, which seems awfully high for Stephenson. Only reason I can see Lance not wanting that deal is to explore his options and possibly leave Indiana for one of the teams mentioned above. It was no secret that The Pacers locker room was divided last season towards the end of the year and their play showed it at times too.
Stephenson’s act may have worn thin with Paul George and The Pacers front office or he’s just ready to move on. From Paul George not sounding very enthusiastic about bringing Stephenson back or Hibbert’s comments about selfish teammates in the locker room which Stephenson at times got trigger happy. I expect Stephenson to leave in free agency, and the team he goes to would be Boston. Boston has something Indiana doesn’t a true Point Guard, and not just anyone Rondo can control the flow and would help Stephenson’s game. Rondo and Stephenson would also be a good back court defensively.
I hope Lance’s immaturity at times does not scare teams off, because he is a good all around player and I can see him developing into something special. Lance plays with his heart on his sleeve and only knows how to play one way and that’s 110%. Stephenson’s motor is ridiculous and he can score the rock. Only real major improvement he needs is staying consistent with his jump shot and overall shot selection, which both of those will come in time I think.
As of right now Stephenson’s free agent interest has been luke warm, but once Carmelo and LeBron are signed I fully expect a deal to happen pretty quickly since Stephenson has some real upside.
