NBA trade rumors: Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer spoke with Paul Millsap while trade rumors continue to swirl

The trade rumors surrounding Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap may still turn out to be false, but it seems the reports are so widespread that coach Mike Budenholzer felt the need to talk to his player. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has reported that the two met on Tuesday to clear the air.

"I can't tell you (what was said) but we sat down and talked. Our main focus is winning games right now. The focus is on basketball. We talked holistically, big picture, basketball, typical conversation that Bud and I may have. We spoke. It was (important) for us to sit down and talk to each other, especially with everything that is circulating out there. Get back to what you have to do to focus on basketball," Millsap said.

When asked if he was going to be traded, Millsap said he wasn't sure and he really doesn't have a clue. Budenholzer also refused to reveal what they talked about during their meeting. "I'm always talking to our guys about lots of different things. I visit with Paul. He visits with me," he explained.

Well, right now, Millsap is one of the biggest names mentioned in trade rumors this season. Yes, there are reports about other stars being dangled in trade talks as well, but some of those rumors are borderline ridiculous. This one is actually plausible. And when a coach has to talk to his player about the rumors surrounding him, something is probably happening.

If he is really on the trading block, contenders will line up to see if they can acquire him. Reports say the Toronto Raptors, the Oklahoma City Thunder, The Denver Nuggets and the L.A. Lakers are all interested in him. Just imagine a Raptors team of Millsap, Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan. That team can certainly challenge the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference.

Millsap can also help the Boston Celtics shore up their front line. If they do get him, that means he will also be playing beside his former Hawks teammate Al Horford.

Will the Hawks put Millsap on the trading block? We will see in the next few weeks.