NBA 2016 News and Rumors: Stephen Jackson Looking for a Comeback? SJax to Court Bulls, Pelicans
"NBA or nothing, man." Stephen Jackson said in an interview with SLAM Magazine; this is how the veteran small forward views his career at this point.
Jackson is 38 years old and would probably hang his hat in the next few years, but he can still be a serviceable addition to any NBA team, whether he contributes off the bench or in the locker room. At his age, Stak5 would not need much of a contract.
Jackson is reportedly interested in the Bulls, Knicks and Pelicans.
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Hoiberg's offense
The Bulls already have solid names on their payroll. They got Rajon Rondo from the Kings, one of the most creative passers in the league and a pesky perimeter defender. They also have Dwyane Wade, a perennial All-Star selection and superhuman scorer, winning four titles as a star in the Miami Heat.
However, Coach Fred Hoiberg's system banks on something Wade and Rondo will struggle to keep up with: shooting. Both men can set the pace for the team, but only star wing Jimmy Butler and possibly Nikola Mirotic will possess a respectable jumpshot on the starting lineup.
On the bench, they do have shooters in Denzel Valentine and Doug McDermott, but both of them are still young in the league. A good mentor in Jackson could help them grow, plus add depth and shooting to the Bulls' lineup.
Veteran guile
Jackson said he still has a good two years left in him. He contributes on offense and defense with his grit and toughness, and his best asset right now is his experience. The NBA has a plethora of young, rising superstars that would need a veteran to teach them the ropes.
The shooter may be a good addition to the Golden State Warriors, who are still looking for a 15th man for their roster. The team has space for the wing spot following Harrison Barnes' departure, and Jackson would be a good backup for Klay Thompson and Ian Clark. He had also played some of his best years with Golden State, averaging 19.4 points, 5 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game in almost four seasons.
With that said, he could also contribute to the New Orleans Pelicans who has a young and defensive juggernaut in Anthony Davis, and a rookie shooter in Buddy Hield. Jackson would have tough competition for the wing spot, but would be the perfect mentor to build up these two potential stars.
