NBA Player Power Rankings: Change of the Guard
20. Paul Millsap, Atlanta Hawks
Last Rank: No. 20
Position: Power Forward
Age: 31
Slash Line: .473/.310/.751
Season Averages: 32.6 MPG, 17.4 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 2.4 ORPG, 3.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 1.4 BPG, 0.9 3PM
Paul Millsap has been one of the most well-rounded players in the NBA this season. The statistics tell an accurate story of how Millsap has blended his role as a versatile offensive playmaker with the task of being both an interior and perimeter defender.
The Atlanta Hawks may have a worse record than they did a season ago, but Millsap’s improvement suggests they’re better equipped for the postseason in 2015-16.
Long respected for his dynamic offensive ability, Millsap has evolved into one of the best defensive players in the NBA. He’s No. 2 in the NBA in Defensive Win Shares, and ranks No. 3 behind just Hassan Whiteside and Kawhi Leonard in defensive rating.
Most expected Millsap to be one of the best in the NBA on the offensive end, but his development as a defensive stabilizer is the key to Atlanta’s championship aspirations.
Millsap, now a three-time All-Star, has effectively shaken the underrated label. He remains under-appreciated by those who downplay his contributions by suggesting he’s a system player, however, as he’s very clearly proven to be a high-caliber two-way player.
Millsap’s true test will come in the postseason.
Next: Playing Like Himself Again