Atlanta Hawks: 4 Different Lineups for 2016

Lineup 2

Mar 22, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; San Antonio Spurs center

(22) and Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) fight for a rebound during the first half at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

1 – Jeff Teague, 2 – Kyle Korver, 3 – Paul Millsap, 4 – Al Horford, 5 – Tiago Splitter

With the addition of Tiago Splitter to the Atlanta Hawks, the team immediately gains size in the front-court. When Bud uses this lineup, it will shift Al Horford down to his natural Power Forward position, creating mismatches with smaller 4’s.

Splitter at the Center position will provide rim protection and rebounding on the offensive and defensive end, affording the Atlanta Hawks more second chance opportunities. The quirk in this particular set is that Paul Millsap will shift from Power Forward to the wing. Millsap is by no means a Small Forward, but possesses the size and quickness to be effective at the position.

During the 2015 Eastern Conference Finals, Mike Budenholzer tinkered with a similar lineup, shifting Millsap to the 3 to defend Lebron James. While many (myself included) believed that the experiment would go horribly, Millsap did a remarkable job guarding James, showcasing his athleticism and quickness. With Millsap’s new-found long-range shot, he is perfectly capable of shifting down to the 3.

The back-court of Teague and Korver will remain static. This lineup will be used against bigger teams in order to create mismatches at the 4, which Al Horford can take advantage of. I’m excited to see this lineup in action.

Next: Let's Go Small, Y'all