Trae Young hasn’t been shy when it comes to 3-point shooting since he’s been in the NBA. Well, that was the case until this season. Something has broken in the confidence that has lived in the Hawks point guard since his arrival in the league. Beware, his statistics are still staggering in terms of production, with 27 points and almost 10 points per game. In terms of true-shooting percentage, which includes free throws, the All-Star is at 56% and therefore up from last season. But this ability to shoot from afar, to see from afar, has vanished.
Young is only taking 6.8 outside shots per game, compared to 8 last season, which is not a problem in itself. The problem is that it shoots at 31.4%. Only two players with at least 6 average attempts have a lower percentage in the NBA: LeBron James (28.8%) et Kelly Oubre Jr (30.8%). After approaching 40% last season, Trae Young cannot be satisfied with being so far off the mark.
Lately, and while the Hawks seem to be enjoying a resurgence, things have gotten a little worse. In Atlanta’s last four games (2 wins, 2 losses), Young is 1/17 to 3 points. He obviously has many other things to bring to his team, but if the defenses begin to no longer fear his outside shot, the former Oklahoma will be more readable. And it may already be…
Even at two points, a player of a caliber like his must do better than 42%. A found address will most likely be synonymous with better performance for the Hawks, who continue to search for themselves and cling to the hope of finishing 6th and avoiding the play-in. They are currently 8th, with two victories less than Miami, the first virtual holder of direct access to the playoffs.
Podcast #74: Sacramento Kings, Revenge of the Unloved
