The Portland Trail Blazers made a strategic move at the trade deadline by acquiring Vit Krejci from the Atlanta Hawks. This 25-year-old Czech wing was brought in exchange for the injured Duop Reath and two future second-round picks. While Krejci hasn't quite hit his stride in Oregon yet, there's plenty of reason for optimism.
Krejci's addition was seen as a win for both teams, with a slight edge to the Blazers. The Hawks, meanwhile, added Corey Kispert and Buddy Hield, players with games similar to Krejci. Luckily for Portland, they secured Krejci, who comes with a manageable $5 million contract over the next 18 months.
Reath, who had contributed well since joining the Blazers in 2023, was sidelined with a season-ending foot injury and faced free agency. Trading him made sense for Portland, allowing them to bring in some much-needed shooting depth.
Krejci’s Game
Krejci has built his NBA reputation as a reliable three-point shooter, known for his smooth mechanics and quick release. With 283 career threes, he's more than just a shooter.
Initially entering the league as a point guard, he's shown versatility by contributing as a playmaker. His true value lies on the wing, where he stretches the floor and can handle the ball effectively.
Defensively, Krejci benefits from his 6’8” frame and matching wingspan. While he might not be a lockdown defender like Toumani Camara or Matisse Thybulle, his size and agility make him serviceable, especially if he continues to contribute offensively.
Krejci’s Season
Since joining the Blazers, Krejci's shooting has dipped, with his three-point percentage barely above 30%. This is a significant drop from his time with the Hawks, where he consistently shot above 40% from deep.
In 46 games with Atlanta, Krejci averaged 9.0 points, shooting 42.3% from three and 46.4% overall. As a Blazer, his numbers have fallen to 7.4 points per game, with a 30.7% three-point percentage and 40.7% from the field.
Despite these struggles, Krejci's efficiency inside the arc remains impressive. Among wings, he ranks high in two-point percentage, shooting 67.9%, and is particularly effective at the rim, converting 87.5% of his attempts. His reputation as a three-point threat helps him create opportunities closer to the basket.
Why I’m Not Worried
Krejci has only played 18 games with the Blazers, and his track record suggests he can regain his shooting form. Over three-and-a-half seasons with the Hawks, he consistently hit over 40% from three. While this season might see a slight dip, there's confidence he’ll bounce back next year.
Importantly, Krejci continues to contribute by scoring efficiently inside, making him a valuable asset even when his long-range shot isn't falling.
The Blazers have 11 more games this season and another full year to evaluate Krejci's fit. This gives them ample time to decide on his future with the team, whether that means extending, re-signing, or exploring other options before the 2027 offseason.
Conclusion
Vit Krejci’s ability to maintain his long-range shooting while showcasing skills inside the arc makes him a versatile player. Despite a slow start in Portland, the trade for Krejci was a smart move that could pay dividends for the Blazers, thanks to his affordable contract and multifaceted offensive game.