Center Muscala calls his return for fifth Hawks season a ‘no-brainer’

LAS VEGAS — Mike Muscala got engaged, bought a house, built a home gym and experienced free agency for the first time.

Life has changed for the Hawks center this summer, yet one facet remained the same: Muscala will continue to play in Atlanta.

He agreed to a two-year, $10 million contract with the Hawks as an unrestricted free agent last week. The deal calls for a second-year player option, meaning Muscala could explore the freeagent market again next summer. The Hawks have yet to announce the signing.

Muscala has played all four of his NBA seasons with the Hawks after being drafted in the second round out of Bucknell in 2013. He said he drew interest from several teams but knew where he wanted to be.

“Definitely great to be back,” Muscala said. “Atlanta will always be a special place for me. It’s where I started myNBA career. It was really a no-brainer. Obviously, I’m really excited for what’s ahead.”

Muscala bought an offseason home in his native Minnesota and converted the detached garage into a 1,000-square-foot gym. He has spent the offseason working on his game while things back in Atlanta have also changed. Like the roster: Muscala is one of just six players remaining from the 15 who finished the season for the Hawks.

There could be a much different role for Muscala next season.

“That is yet to be seen,” he said. “Obviously we are going to miss Paul (Millsap) and Tim (Hardaway Jr.) and Dwight (Howard), for sure. But, for me, I’m trying to continue to improve my game. It’s hard to know what is going to happen with the roster. I think there is going to be an opportunity but there is still time in free agency and time for rosters to change across the league.

“It’s definitely going to be a different team. For me personally and the guys who are on the squad, it’s going to be a good opportunity.”

The Hawks roster currently lists Muscala, Miles Plumlee and Diamond Stone at the center position. Muscala (6-feet-11, 240 pounds) is far and away most versatile of the three, with an ability to shoot from the outside. He shot a career-best .418 from 3-point range last season.

In addition to being a handy man around his new house, Muscala said he continues to work on his game in anticipation for next season. His to-do list includes working on his jump shot, getting stronger, getting in shape, working to create off the dribble and working to create his own shot in the post.

“I’m learning something new every day,” he said.