{"id":162804,"date":"2025-10-16T07:54:53","date_gmt":"2025-10-16T11:54:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/?p=162804"},"modified":"2025-10-16T07:55:09","modified_gmt":"2025-10-16T11:55:09","slug":"luke-kennard-atlanta-hawks-x-factor","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/2025\/10\/16\/luke-kennard-atlanta-hawks-x-factor\/","title":{"rendered":"Atlanta Hawks X-Factor: A New Sharpshooter"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Atlanta Hawks struggled from beyond the arc last season, ranking near the bottom of the league in 3-point efficiency. Despite having talented scorers like Trae Young<\/a> and Jalen Johnson<\/a>, Atlanta\u2019s lack of consistent outside shooting often stalled its offense. The addition of Luke Kennard<\/a> to the Hawks could provide the perimeter threat the team has long needed, immediately improving spacing and offensive flow.<\/p>\n

Luke Kennard: The X-Factor Driving The Hawks’ Offense<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Essentially, Kennard\u2019s presence alone changes how defenses guard Atlanta.<\/p>\n

Last season, the Hawks finished 18th in 3-point percentage (35.8%) and 14th in total 3s made (1,107). The team\u2019s lack of reliable shooters allowed defenses to clog the paint and disrupt ball-movement. Adding Kennard addresses this problem<\/a>, giving the Hawks a sharpshooter who can consistently hit open 3s, open driving lanes for Young, and force defenses to stretch. With Kennard on the Hawks, the team can run more five-out lineups and create higher-percentage scoring opportunities.<\/p>\n

Kennard\u2019s career 3-point percentage (.438) ranks among the best<\/a> in NBA history. His off-ball movement and quick release force defenders to stay attached, creating more opportunities for teammates. So, when he’s on the floor, Young, Johnson, and others gain better spacing to attack the basket or find open perimeter shots. His quick release and off-ball awareness also complement Young\u2019s passing ability, turning stagnant possessions into high-percentage opportunities. Bearing that in mind, Kennard’s consistent shooting generates secondary passing options, improving overall offensive efficiency.<\/p>\n

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Luke Kennard | 3 Point Shooting <\/p>\n

\u2022 great job relocating \/ moving without the ball.
\u2022 shot ready on catches. Hands up early
\u2022 hops into most shots. Great energy transfer.
\u2022 great balance off the move & spot up! <\/p>\n

Shot 49.4% from 3 on 4+ attempts per game pic.twitter.com\/J0HS35J4tp<\/a><\/p>\n

— Harp (@3SeedTraining) April 10, 2023<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n