Atlanta Hawks: John Collins free agency outlook this off-season
By Brice Lewis
Atlanta Hawks option No. 2) Potentially let him walk
If the number isn’t right, or the Hawks have another plan, then they let JC walk in free agency. There are a number of teams who are interested in Collins’ services. In my opinion, the two most likely are the Portland Trail Blazers and the San Antonio Spurs
The Blazers may allow Jusuf Nurkic to walk, and Zach Collins can’t stay healthy. So that leaves a hole in the frontcourt that Collins could fill. He could then be a third option behind Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum
The Spurs waived LaMarcus Aldridge and may be looking to replace him, as they will have the cap space to do so. JC would also fit in with the youth movement that is taking place and could be a good fit within the Spurs system.
Dallas and Minnesota also have their names in the John Collins chase. So he will be very sought after when he hits free agency. So JC will have many options if he decides not to go back to the Hawks. Although he is a restricted free agent, JC still picks what offer sheet he wants to sign, so many teams are going to make pitches to him to pick their team and potentially max him out.
At the end of the day, if the Hawks pick this route, they will need to have a plan or could risk setting the team back. Collins has been a glue guy and a great locker room player for this team outside of his on the court production. I think Schlenk would have a plan, but it’s risky.