Orlando Magic Free Agency Preview: The Power Forwards

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Feb 27, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) dribbles the ball against the Orlando Magic in the third quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

Paul Millsap, Atlanta Hawks

For those that have accepted Draymond Green could be out of reach, they quickly turned their attention to two-time All Star Paul Millsap.

Millsap has certainly thrived within the Hawks system. He stepped up in such a major way and filled the versatile forward needs for the Hawks. He can force the action when he needs to, hit shots from the perimeter and play in the post. He plays taller than his 6-foot-8 frame, making the most of the opportunities he received from the Hawks and Jazz throughout his career.

It has always been hard to peg him. He spent the last two years on a bargain-basement deal worth $19 million. Millsap clearly outplayed the $9.5 million per year he made the last two years. That is not what someone who has averaged at least 15 points per game in four of the last five years should get.

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The Hawks seem perfectly willing to spend the money to keep their core together. Millsap will certainly ask for a little pay raise, even though he is 30 years old. This could be his last big contract.

Just how much might be the real question. And will some other team drop a lot more money to steal him away. Is he even that kind of player who can operate as something of a solo act, or does he need the confines of Mike Budenholzer’s system and the collection of perfectly placed pieces the Hawks have?

Someone will surely take that risk.

His defensive versatility seems like it would be a good fit for the Magic. The team needs someone defensive minded to slide next to Nikola Vucevic and who can spread the floor on offense. Millsap fits that bill, even if he does not fit the bill as a rim protector.

This is the kind of veteran a team like the Magic needs. It just may be one that is too expensive for them — especially considering his age.

Next: David West, Indiana Pacers