Czech combo guard Vit Krejci is having a breakout season from the Hawks’ bench this year, and the 25-year-old’s jumpshot has turned into Atlanta’s secret weapon. He is the third-best three-point shooter in the league (49%) behind Bobby Portis (50.0%) and Tari Eason (50.9%)
Krejci’s confidence has taken a massive leap from last year, and he’s producing career-best results with his newfound conviction. He’s averaging 10.5 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists after playing 14 games thus far.
Head coach Quin Snyder increased Vit’s minutes to 24 per game, and he quickly found his role in this new core. His quick release, accompanied by his ability to come off screens, has added an element the Hawks were missing.
Their longtime three-point marksman, Bogdan Bogdanovic, was traded last year after suffering a major decline, and Krejci has filled the void. He has made five more threes in three games this season, and if it wasn’t a barrage from deep, it’s a smooth stroke of three or more.
It’s become a nightly occurrence, and during this time, he’s revealed new tricks while driving to the rim. His floaters have improved, and he’s clearly gotten stronger compared to last season. It’s been an encouraging development for the new front office as they make plans for the future, and Vit’s contract situation makes him an even better asset.
Krejci is on one of the best contracts in the league
For him to be one of the best three-point shooters on the planet, his annual salary is certainly generous. His teammate, Luke Kennard, is receiving 11 million for one year of service, and Krejci is arguably the better shooter as it stands currently.
Vit has made Kennard expendable moving forward, especially since Luke is on a one-year deal. The 30-year-old is averaging 8.1 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 44% from behind the arc. Krejci is the one who will be here long term, but both shooters are vital for a playoff birth this season
There’s no questioning his ability, but if a question needs to be answered, it surrounds his playoff performance. He hasn’t had the opportunity to showcase his skills on a bigger stage, and it’s mandatory for him to feel that pressure. Many players are given a false sense of security in the regular season.
The Hawks are currently 11-8 as the 6th seed in the Eastern Conference, so if they continue their winning ways, Krejci will showcase his true potential when it matters the most.