Should the Hawks resign Paul Millsap?

Perhaps the most important headline this season has been Paul Millsap.

Throughout this Hawk’s season, star forward Paul Millsap has been in the spotlight time and time again. First the news he would most likely decline this player option, then the chatter of a possible blockbuster trade. Those rumors were ultimately squelched by the front office but something like that never goes away. All in all however, the question of resigning Millsap is one that could be difficult for the Hawks to answer.

Over the past few months there has been much speculation over the future of Paul Millsap in an Atlanta uniform. After it was revealed he would decline his player option, the Hawks looked elsewhere due to the fact they did not want to pay him (probably the max). With trade talks over and Paul stating that he would like to stay in Atlanta, it’s up to the front office to decide.

There is no questioning Paul Millsap’s productivity while playing for Atlanta. He’s averaging almost 18 points and 8 rebounds a game, and has put up similar numbers in each of his four years as a Hawk. His three all-star appearances are also further validation. While consistently putting up high numbers and playing hard every game, his value to the team is obvious.

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Money is perhaps the only issue the front office could be facing.

If Paul Millsap were to decline his option, this would make him an unrestricted free agent with plenty of suitors. His production and resume could certainly command a max contract in the off-season. As rumored earlier in the year, Atlanta was hesitant to make Paul a huge offer, and shipped off Kyle Korver because of his impending free agent status as well. However, he was taken off the trading block recently even in light of the free agent status. This shows that the Hawks could be willing to give Paul his final big contract after all, he deserves it.