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NBA Free Agency: Options for Paul Millsap after Atlanta Hawks’ comments

By Maxwell Ogden

Apr 24, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) signs autographs before a game against the Washington Wizards in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 24, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) signs autographs before a game against the Washington Wizards in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 12, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) dribbles the ball against Brooklyn Nets guard Randy Foye (2) during the second half at the United Center. Chicago defeats Brooklyn 112-73. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 12, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) dribbles the ball against Brooklyn Nets guard Randy Foye (2) during the second half at the United Center. Chicago defeats Brooklyn 112-73. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls offer what borders on being the perfect situation for Paul Millsap. Small forward Jimmy Butler is a borderline superstar with immense two-way value, and point guard Rajon Rondo is expected to bring his exceptional facilitating touch back to Chicago.

Millsap being able to sign with the Bulls is contingent upon Dwyane Wade declining his player option, but if that transpires—or if Wade restructures—then this could pay off.

Playing with a star like Butler would give Millsap his most legitimate opportunity yet to compete for an NBA Finals run. Butler would be the best pure talent he’s ever been teammates with, and the former Marquette Golden Eagles star has proven capable of shining in the postseason.

Chicago would still need more firepower, but with two Top 20 two-way players, head coach Fred Hoiberg would have the star power he needs to win at a high level.

Although underrated, another appealing aspect of signing with Chicago is the presence of center Robin Lopez. Lopez’s game is predicated on energy, defensive intensity, and boxing out opponents so his teammates can pull down rebounds—the type of selfless presence a star would cherish.

This won’t work if Wade doesn’t opt out or restructure, but Millsap and Butler would be a formidable 1-2 punch in the Eastern Conference.

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