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Atlanta Hawks 2017-18 season primer: A return to rebuilding

By FanSided User

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 24: Dennis Schroder #17 of the Atlanta Hawks drives to the basket against John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards during the fourth quarter in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on April 24, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 24: Dennis Schroder #17 of the Atlanta Hawks drives to the basket against John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards during the fourth quarter in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on April 24, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/Getty Images) /
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LOS ANGELES, CA – SEPTEMBER 15: Paul Millsap
LOS ANGELES, CA – SEPTEMBER 15: Paul Millsap /

Key Losses

Paul Millsap

When the Hawks decided to let All-Star forward Paul Millsap walk, they made it clear that the playoffs are not the goal this season. Millsap is always going to be underrated by casual fans, but his impact cannot be overstated.

He does so many small things that contribute to winning. His impact will be seen this season as the Hawks struggle mightily in his absence. While he has slipped a little with age, there is a reason he was an All-Star in each of his four seasons in Atlanta.

Dwight Howard

Always one of the more controversial players in the league, Howard had a predictably up-and-down season with the Hawks. He put up solid numbers (13.5 points and 12.7 rebounds) but his deficiencies often overshadowed his actual production.

He clearly is not the same player that he once was, but I believe Howard can still be a productive pro in the right situation. The Hawks will miss his interior defense and pick-and-roll prowess.

Tim Hardaway Jr.

The Hawks, wisely, let Hardaway move on this summer. The Knicks signed the guard to a four-year, $71 million offer sheet this summer and Atlanta decided to pass.

Hardaway showed signs of progress last year but he simply is not worth this lucrative of a deal. I think he will be a solid player, but the Hawks will feel good about letting him walk.

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