NBA Player Power Rankings: Change of the Guard

Mar 16, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) steals the ball from New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) during the third quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Pelicans defeated the Kings 123-108. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 13, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) shoots over Indiana Pacers forward Myles Turner (33) during the second half at Philips Arena. The Hawks defeated the Pacers 104-75. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

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