Atlanta Hawks GM Landry Fields made a significant move to change the team’s lineup by signing wing Vit Krejci to a four-year contract worth $10.2 million.
The Hawks officially announced the deal with Krejci on Friday. Last season, Krejci played in 22 games for Atlanta under a two-way contract, starting in 14 of them. The 6-foot-8 player averaged 6.1 points per game during his third NBA season.
He notably showcased his potential by making all six of his 3-point attempts and scoring 18 points in a game against the Chicago Bulls on April 1, tying a franchise record.
At 24 years old, Krejci will now join Zaccharie Risacher, the Hawks’ first overall pick in the NBA draft, as key wing option.
This signing comes as the Hawks adjust their roster following the trade of Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans, which involved acquiring four veterans and two first-round draft picks.
Fields acknowledged the difficulty of trading Murray and anticipates more tough decisions regarding veteran players, as the team aims to reshape its lineup.
The Hawks have not advanced past the first round of playoffs since reaching the Eastern Conference finals in 2021, finishing this season 10th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 36-46.
With this new contract, Krejci, who hails from the Czech Republic, is expected to take on a more prominent role within the team.
