The run made by the Atlanta Hawks in the playoffs put them directly in the spotlight and has raised expectations looking ahead to next year. Trae Young burst onto the superstar scene and others like John Collins and Clint Capela got a major boost as well.

John Collins is going to be a restricted free agent this summer. After reportedly turning down an extension that was worth north of $90 million earlier this year, it was clear the Hawks forward was betting on himself and hoping for a max contract this summer.

Now, with free agency looming, Shams Charania of The Athletic is reporting that many around the league believe Collins has elevated his value to a max contract type of player after helping the Hawks reach the Eastern Conference Finals. It could put Atlanta in quite a bind.

“Across the league, many believe Hawks forward/center John Collins increased his value as a maximum contract-caliber player during Atlanta’s run to the Eastern Conference finals. In 18 postseason games, Collins averaged 13.9 points, 8.7 rebounds and 35.7 percent 3-point shooting.

Dallas, Miami, San Antonio and Minnesota are among the teams expected to show interest in Collins, believing he could be attainable as a restricted free agent, sources said.”

It could come down to a bidding war for the Hawks and matching a massive offer sheet if the Mavericks, Heat, Spurs or Timberwolves decide to back up the Brinks truck for Atlanta's forward.

Collins figures to be a huge part of Atlanta's plans moving forward if they are able to hang on to him. Collins and Hawks star Trae Young have shown plenty of chemistry working the pick-and-roll on offense and he would be a big loss if he ends up elsewhere.