19. Atlanta Hawks- John Collins- PF- Wake Forest
The big question mark for the Atlanta Hawks is whether they can keep All-Star Paul Millsap or if he heads to greener pastures like former teammate Al Horford? Millsap has a player option for next season that he will most likely decline to become an unrestricted free agent. The open market will have plenty of suitors for his services, so stay tuned to this developing story.
The other power forwards on the roster are all free agents as well. Ersan Ilyasova, Kris Humphries, and Mike Muscala will all be hitting the market, so even if Millsap stays the Hawks will be searching for a reserve at that position.
Why John Collins?
John Collins‘ best NBA position may be a center, but I am a fan of his game. A more traditional big, Collison scored 19.2 points per game last season on 62.4% from the field. He added in 9.8 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game. Undoubtedly great college numbers and he has some skills that should translate well to the NBA.
Draft Express questions his defense, and that is fair, but I think Collins has potential. He makes a great fit for the Hawks at pick 19.