Philadelphia 76ers: Ranking Ben Simmons against all 2019-20 starting point guards

18. Jeff Teague, Minnesota Timberwolves

Despite taking a perceived step back last season, Jeff Teague remains a consistently solid player. He’s an important part of the Timberwolves offense, now retaining point guard duties following the departures of both Derrick Rose and Tyus Jones.

Teague is a top-notch facilitator, prodding the defense and exploiting lapses. He averaged 8.2 assists per game last season, the highest mark of his career. He coupled that with 12.1 points and 42.3 percent shooting — not great, but not exactly a career-killing step in the wrong direction.

17. Dejounte Murray, San Antonio Spurs

Dejounte Murray missed the entire 2018-19 season with a torn ACL. He’s expected to retake the starting point guard spot in San Antonio, although there are still positional battles to be settled. When he was last healthy, Murray earned second-team All-Defense honors.

A long, rangy point guard, Murray has the foot speed and instincts to place opposing ball handlers in a cage. He’s one of the top defensive guards in the league, which earns respect on this list. He’s not a bad offensive talent either, with a smooth approach inside the arc. He needs to iron out his 3-point mechanics.

16. Lonzo Ball, New Orleans Pelicans

I’m still a firm believer in Lonzo Ball, who battled ankle issues for much of last season. The Lakers were notorious for mismanaging talent, something the Pelicans under David Griffin are determined not to do. Lonzo should find a comfortable role as New Orleans’ lead guard.

It’s a near-perfect fit. Jrue Holiday can handle creation duties in the halfcourt, allowing Lonzo to operate off-ball as a cutter and secondary playmaker — where he shined most at UCLA. He’s also a potential All-Defense candidate and will form a tantalizing fast-break duo with Zion Williamson.