Atlanta Hawks: Paul Millsap officially to free Agency?

As the regular season comes to a close, it looks as though Paul Millsap will indeed become a free agent in the off-season.

Atlanta Hawks fans have wondered for awhile about the status of Paul Millsap. Now it looks like we have a clear answer. As reported by Adam Schefter, it almost 100 percent looks as though Paul Millsap will decline his player option. This has been off and on reported over the course of the season but Hawks fans might have still held on to a little hope.

Trade rumors as well have clouded most of the year. However, the consensus is that Millsap would prefer to resign with Atlanta. The question falls to the front office as what to ultimately decide in the offseason. Will we see Paul Millsap in a Hawks uniform next year?

At least to start, Paul will be looking for a five year max from the Hawks. If signed by another team he would only receive a four year max. Even though the Hawks can provide this advantage, I’m not sure a max deal would be in the best interest of the organization. Millsap is 32 years old and a five year commitment at this stage is risky. Especially for a team that at this point cannot truly contend for a championship. The Hawks front office in general needs to start building from young talent on the roster and through the draft.

Next: Braves Off-season Targets

Plans for the future?

In my opinion, the Atlanta Hawks cannot contend in the eastern conference at this point. However, with a young core of Dennis, Hardaway, and Taurean Prince the Hawks have some keys to success. Acquiring more young talent via free agency and resigning Tim Hardaway should be priorities. Paul has been a vital part of the Hawks but its clear championships are not in the near future. The wise move with our cap space would be to go young around Dwight. This has not been the season Coach Bud and the front office have anticipated. The Hawks have underwhelmed and a semi-fresh start next season seems to be in order.