NBA: Each Team’s Most Important Player Heading Into 2015-16

Mar 9, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Kyle Korver (26) runs back after making a basket against the Sacramento Kings in the first quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Kyle Korver, Atlanta Hawks

2014-15 Stats: 12.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 49.2 3-pt% 

When Kyle Korver went down due to injury in the Hawks’ playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, he was clearly missed. During the regular season, when the Hawks were healthy, Korver (individually) had the highest offensive rating on the team (110.8) and fifth best defensive rating (99.8) – translating the a team-high 10.9 net rating.

Perhaps his most impressive statistical phenomenon, though, was his 49 percent shooting from three-point range. He led the NBA in three-point shooting percentage (at least 200 3pt attempts) and was third (221) in makes.

When Korver wasn’t healthy and flanking on the fastbreak, the Hawks were a different team. They struggled mightily to get easy buckets, even though Korver isn’t a “go get a bucket” type of player. If the Hawks are going to win close to 60 games again this season, they’re going to need a healthy Korver.

Next: Boston Celtics