Atlanta Hawks: five takeaways from the win over the Kings

Oct 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks players including forward Kent Bazemore (arms raised) react on the bench after defeating the Sacramento Kings at Philips Arena. The Hawks defeated the Kings 106-95. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks players including forward Kent Bazemore (arms raised) react on the bench after defeating the Sacramento Kings at Philips Arena. The Hawks defeated the Kings 106-95. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 29, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) dribbles as Philadelphia 76ers forward Jerami Grant (39) defends during the fourth quarter of the game at the Wells Fargo Center. The Atlanta Hawks won 104-72. Mandatory Credit: John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) dribbles as Philadelphia 76ers forward Jerami Grant (39) defends during the fourth quarter of the game at the Wells Fargo Center. The Atlanta Hawks won 104-72. Mandatory Credit: John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports /

Paul Millsap’s Versatility On Full Display

When it comes to discussing the versatile power forwards of the NBA, Millsap’s name often doesn’t come to mind. He won’t blow you away with blazing speed or freaky jumping abilities, but last night his versatility was showcased.

Millsap finished with 13 points, 14 rebounds, eight assists, and three steals. If it weren’t for getting into foul trouble, his onslaught in the first half would’ve been even worse. In the first quarter, it seemed like no matter what type of play was happening, Millsap was involved.

Millsap’s six assists per game average ranks second in the NBA behind Draymond Green, but you can argue especially right now that Millsap is playing like the best power forward in the entire league.

Early on, Millsap was completely controlling the glass and set the tone for the remainder of the game. Offensively, Millsap was making it a point to collapse the defense and kick the ball out to open shooters–many of which resulted in made baskets.

The Hawks have fed off Millsap’s energy in every game this season. He doesn’t have to go for 30 night in and night out. If he can finish with a stat line similar to what he did tonight (with maybe just a couple more buckets), the Hawks will be extremely difficult to match up against.