Atlanta Hawks: Comprehensive Grades For The Offseason
Paul Millsap Signing
Paul Millsap has become, in my opinion, the Hawks’ most valuable player. When he hit free agency, it didn’t seem like they were facing too stiff competition in keeping him in town. Then, the Orlando Magic swooped in with a four-year, $80 million offer, which left Millsap thinking.
He concluded, fortunately for the team, that Atlanta was where he belonged.
Paul Millsap on why picked Hawks over Magic: "I felt like Atlanta was home and Atlanta was the better fit. That’s what it came down to."
— Chris Vivlamore (@CVivlamoreAJC) July 9, 2015
He signed with the Hawks for three years with a player option after two, which allows him to hit the restricted free agent market again when the salary cap inflation is in full swing.
For the Hawks, his return is integral to their success. Millsap averaged 16.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game for Atlanta, and is a big part of what they do on offense and defense. His passing ability also makes him a great fit for Atlanta’s Spurs-like offense.
If there is a drawback to this signing, it is contract length. The Hawks will have to use a substantial amount of the new cap space to sign Millsap again if he opts out. That does somewhat limit their ability to make long-term changes on their roster, but it is better to keep the star you have than gamble on trying to get a new one.
Grade: A-
Next: Not Re-Signing Carroll