3 offseason moves the Atlanta Hawks need to make

Re-sign John Collins

Atlanta needs to do what they can to bring back John Collins as the power forward enters free agency.

Collins was the team’s second-leading scorer in the regular season. With 17.6 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game, he proved he was probably right to reject the Hawks’ extension offer of $90 million. He’s going to get more than that.

For Atlanta, the price may be an issue. He’s apparently looking for a payday of more than $20 per year.

On the plus side, since Collins is a restricted free agent, the Hawks will have the opportunity to match whatever offer he gets from outside. If they want to hold onto him, the power is theirs.

There’s a good argument to pay the money. Collins was essential to the playoff run. Even though he only averaged 13.9 points in the postseason, his presence was critical. He was among the most efficient scorers on the team.

The young core of the Hawks is what made this playoff run so special. Keeping them together has to be part of the long-term plan for future success.