The word the Hawks used was “preventative.”
As in, this could have been much worse if we let it go, so we’re getting it done now.
Atlanta’s All-Star forward and best player Paul Millsap recently had a minor knee surgery that will keep him out for three weeks, through at least the first part of training camp and a couple of preseason games, the team announced Thursday.
“After reviewing the options with Paul to treat his knee and provide him the best long-term care, we agreed, largely due to the time of year, that this was the best method and time to ensure his complete readiness for the start of the regular season,” said team president of basketball operations and head coach Mike Budenholzer in a statement.
Millsap is one of those players that coaches and other GMs love and fans often underestimate. He averaged 17.1 points and 9 rebounds a game, he’s versatile on offense with the ability to score inside and hit threes, plus he’s a good passer who finds the open man (Kyle Korver has benefited). Millsap is also a good defender who gets steals playing the passing lanes.
Millsap, new starting point guard Dennis Schroeder, and new Hawks center Dwight Howard need to develop chemistry this season for the team to become a real postseason threat. Having Millsap out for a few weeks may set that process back a little.
