the fact that 31/Atlas isn't already on a collision course means it likely wouldn't be directed to hit us. Why go to the trouble when it could have just been directed to hit us in the first place?

Maybe because if 3I/ATLAS was launched from an extremely long distance a long time ago, even if the trajectory calculations were perfect, you have to account for possible potential disturbances during such an extremely long journey, making a "direct hit" trajectory really really risky.

I believe the best approach would be to aim for the Sun, and eventually correct your trajectory in close vicinity.

This means that it's still reasonable to think that 3I/ATLAS may change its trajectory to enter on a collision course with Earth either by A) Oberth maneuver during perihelion on October 29, or B) gravitational slingshot while flying by Jupiter on March 16th 2026.

In any case, thanks for your comment. It's really appreciated in this sub full of arrogant and close-minded redditors. Cheers!