Gift #2: The Ideal Stretch Four
For the longest time, the Sacramento Kings have been in search for a legit stretch-four for their team. In the past few years, they have had options, but none of them have panned out the way the Kings wanted them to. But this summer, they found their man.
During the later stages of free agency, the Kings received a gift. The news came out that Nemanja Bjelica decided not to sign his contract with the Philadelphia 76ers in order to play overseas, only that he did not. Instead, Bjelica took interest in playing for the Kings, and the feelings became mutually. Not long after that, Bjelica and the Kings agreed upon a three-year contract worth around $20 million.
Since Bjelica has become a King, he has been an efficient machine. In 33 games so far, he is averaging around 11 points and six rebounds per game while making around 51% of his shots from the floor, 45% from the three-point stripe, and 77% from the free-throw line. Outstanding shooting numbers at his position.
Although Kings fans were optimistic about the Bjelica signing, there is no way they saw this type of play coming from him. He has been the perfect stretch-four in the Kings’ offense as his reliable shooting and smart decision making have played a big part in the Kings’ success.