Jaylen Johnson dominates the Grizzlies, joining Bob Pettit in history

ByNBAUSA



Jalen Johnson continues to turn heads as he leads Atlanta Hawks over Memphis Grizzlies, 124-122in a wild finish at the FedExForum on Wednesday.

Johnson scored with 46.1 seconds left to help the Hawks improve to 21-25. They ended a streak of four losses.

The high-flying forward recorded a game-high 32 points and 15 rebounds and added eight assists. He shot 10 of 21 from the field and 10 of 11 from the free throw line.

The 24-year-old Johnson also reached a personal milestone, joining Hawks legend Bob Pettit as the only players in franchise history. record more games of at least 30 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists.

Johnson’s latest performance only strengthened his case for being named to his first All-Star game. While the Hawks’ record doesn’t bode well for him, his all-around performance in his fifth year should speak for itself. He is averaging career bests of 23.2 points, 10.3 rebounds and 8.0 assists.

Tree Young’s exit signaled that Johnson is now the face of the Hawks. With his steady improvement since being drafted as the 20th overall pick in 2021, the front office has become confident enough to hand the keys to Johnson.

It’s now a youth movement in Atlanta, with Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu and Nickyla Alexander-Walker at the helm. They will have growing pains as expected, but if they keep pushing, the Hawks could be a real problem in the near future.

Okongwu had 18 points, nine rebounds and two blocks against the Grizzlies to back up Johnson. Luke Kennard was great off the bench with 18 points, four rebounds and two steals.





2026-01-22 05:20:00

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