Atlanta Hawks: Takeaways From Wild Win Over Knicks

Hey Now, You’re An All-Star

I hope the Paul Millsap doubters were watching that game. Millsap showed exactly why he deserves to be an All-Star. He was the best player on the floor Sunday afternoon (if you consider offense and defense). Millsap finished with a season high 37 points and 19 rebounds on 13-for-29 shooting. He added in seven assists for good measure.

He was also the only player that had any chance of slowing down Carmelo Anthony. When possible, Mike Budenholzer had Millsap cover Anthony late in the fourth quarter and overtime(s). That led to a turnover and a few missed shots during stretch when it felt like Anthony was scoring at will. If Budenholzer doesn’t make that change the Knicks most likely come away with the win.

Millsap spoke to the media after the game about the marathon hoops session that comes from playing four overtimes.

"“There was no chance I was coming out,” Millsap said. “That was fun,” Millsap said. “I don’t want to do that again ever, but it was fun.”"

Now it’s time for me to go on a rant. This game showcased just how good Paul Millsap is. He’s an offensive and defensive star, capable of winning a game with either of those skill-sets. Without him on the roster the Hawks wouldn’t be a playoff team. With him they’re in the mix for a top four seed in the Eastern Conference.

Joel Embiid is also a very good player. If he stays healthy he’s going to be a superstar in the NBA for several years. We need to stop disparaging one player to build up the other when discussing who got “snubbed” from the All-Star Game. They’re both fantastic and either one is deserving of being an All-Star.

End of rant.