Atlanta Hawks star Jalen Johnson has taken another leap this season, averaging 21.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.8 steals across 12 appearances. The Hawks currently own the four seed with a 9-5 record – and a 7-2 mark since Trae Young went down with an MCL sprain.
While Young has missed time, Johnson has served as an offensive hub and defensive anchor for Atlanta. Johnson recently made history when he detonated against the Utah Jazz for 31 points, 18 boards, 14 assists, and seven steals. He became the first player since the NBA started recording steals in 1973 to reach those numbers in a single outing.
Following Johnson’s signature performance, I spoke with his younger brother, Kobe, about Jalen’s recent form. Kobe currently plays for the College Park Skyhawks, Atlanta’s G League affiliate, and he talked to me about the inspiration he and his teammates get from former Skyhawks like Jalen after College Park’s Nov. 14 home opener.
“I just feel like everybody (like Jalen) has gotta be ready for their moment. Any game, anybody can get hot and going,” Kobe said.
The NBA honored Jalen Johnson for his recent form
Jalen was just named Eastern Conference Player of the Week after averaging 24.0 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 9.3 assists while leading the Hawks to a 4-0 record with Young on the sidelines. Incredibly enough, Atlanta’s dominant west coast road trip marked the first time since 1968 that the Hawks swept a west coast trip of at least four games.
Hawks youngster N’Faly Dante, who exploded for 33 points in College Park’s Nov. 14 win, also spoke with me about Jalen’s electric play.
“It was great. I told Jalen I’m tired of seeing those little numbers, I want to see big ones. I’m on his head all the time … I’m so happy for what we’re doing as a team. Let’s keep winning, that’s all I can say,” Dante said.
Jalen will look to maintain his red-hot form when the Hawks try to end the Detroit Pistons’ 10-game win streak in their next outing.