5 reasons the Atlanta Hawks will win the NBA Finals

By John Buhler | Apr 11, 2016

Jan 20, 2016; Portland, OR, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Thabo Sefolosha (25) goes after a ball with Portland Trail Blazers forward Noah Vonleh (21) during the third quarter of the game at Moda Center at the Rose Quarter. The Hawks won the game 104-98. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 25, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) makes a move against Milwaukee Bucks forward Jabari Parker (12) in the first quarter of their game at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Paul Millsap is All-NBA worthy

It took some time, but Paul Millsap should make his first All-NBA team and All-Defensive teams for his phenomenal 2015-16 NBA season. Though he made his third straight All-Star Game in 2016, Millsap was still routinely overlooked as one of the best all-around front court players in the Association.

In 2015-16, Millsap leads the Hawks in points per game (17.3), rebounds per game (9.0), steals per game (1.8), and blocks per game (1.7). His defensive rating of 96 this season is borderline insane and he’s still a great offensive player on a so-so offensive team, boasting a 109 rating, the best among Atlanta starters.

It’s safe to say that Millsap has been easily the Hawks’ 2015-16 MVP, but how does he stack up with the NBA elite? Millsap is 13th in rebounding, ninth in steals, eighth in blocks, 20th in PER, fourth in defensive rating, and first in defensive win shares.

Overall, Millsap has been solid offensively, but on the defensive end, he’s having arguably the best season of a front court player in the league. In essence, he’s having the best season of his 10-year NBA career at age 31. Though he will not make All-NBA first team, it’s hard to argue against Millsap being a top 15 player in the NBA in 2015-16. He’ll be a big reason if Atlanta shocks the world and wins it all in June.

Next: 3. Health is on their side.

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