The Atlanta Hawks could have pursued a big-name star, but they've chosen to focus on their youth and continuity. Jalen Johnson, 24, had a breakout season, averaging 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game in 72 contests in 2025-26.
What happened?
Johnson's performance earned him All-Star and All-NBA honors, joining an exclusive list with Wilt Chamberlain, Oscar Robertson, Russell Westbrook, and Nikola Jokic. He was the central focus of the offense after Trae Young's injury and trade. Johnson's true shooting percentage dipped from 58% in the regular season to 55% in the postseason. His passivity was evident, with 17.5 field goal attempts per 36 minutes in the regular season, compared to 15.5 in the postseason.
Why it matters for Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks' recent form, with 0 wins, 0 draws, and 5 losses in their last 5 games, including a 89-140 loss to the New York Knicks on 2026-04-30, raises questions about Johnson's impact on team success. Johnson's struggles in the postseason, particularly against the Knicks, were concerning. He shot 39% on pull-up shots during the regular season, but that mark dropped to 25% in the postseason. Johnson must find ways to get his shot off against half-court ball pressure to become an elite player. He dished out 10.6 assists against 4.6 turnovers per 100 possessions.
What comes next?
The Hawks' focus on maintaining flexibility for the long haul may depend on Johnson's ability to improve his performance. With the Eastern Conference becoming increasingly deep, the likelihood of the Hawks making the Finals in 2027 is small. Johnson's development will be crucial to the team's success, and his ability to adapt to different defensive schemes will be key. The Hawks' decision to retain their spring rotation and make moves around the edges, such as drafting Kingston Flemings, indicates their belief in the current team makeup. As the Hawks look to the future, Johnson's growth will be essential to their competitiveness, and his performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
