NBA Trades: 3 landing spots for Nets forward Paul Millsap – 3. Atlanta Hawks
Sometimes, moves are worth it for the storyline alone (or so sportswriters say). Reuniting Millsap with the Atlanta Hawks would be a storybook way to end the big man’s career.
Millsap played for the Hawks from 2013-14 to 2016-17. It was during those four seasons that Millsap most closely embraced the role of being a star.
During his four seasons in Atlanta, Millsap averaged 17.4 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. He went to the All-Star Game every single season he was a part of the Hawks franchise.
For Millsap, the benefit of going to Atlanta would be playing time. The team appears ready to reset a little bit and maybe even trade their star at the power forward position, John Collins. With a thinning depth chart and a lot of young players, Millsap may have the opportunity to contribute.
For Atlanta, the benefit of acquiring Millsap could be twofold. He could provide a strong veteran presence for the aforementioned young players that blanket the roster, allowing them to learn under Millsap’s wise and winning ways.
Additionally, the Nets may be willing to give up some young assets or draft picks to get rid of Millsap. Considering that appears to be the direction of the Hawks after the trade of Cam Reddish and Solomon Hill, it’s not a bad idea to start stockpiling assets.
Millsap may prefer to go to a contender, but there would be something poetic about Millsap returning to the city where he played his best ball.