The ‘key’ secret behind Jalen Johnson’s All-Star caliber season
Atlanta The Hawks didn’t play their best in December, but one constant throughout the season was the game Jalen Johnson. The Hawks forward put the team on his back multiple times and it led him to an All-Star caliber season, like it is currently average 23.7 points, 10.4 rebounds and 8.4 assists.
It shouldn’t be a surprise what Johnson is doing this season after showing flashes last year before suffering a shoulder injury. Now that he’s healthy, Johnson has picked up where he left off, but he’s working harder.
Head coach Quin Snyder talked about the role in the Johnson’s game that has grown this seasonmaking him a potential All-Star.
“When we look at what makes Jalen unique as a player, a lot of it is open-ended,” Snyder said. “His ability to rebound and push and pass and attack the rim. One of the things, in slower tempo and half-court situations, he was much more willing to just catch and shoot without any hesitation.
“I think that’s crucial, because he’s worked on that, to see that translate into your game, which allows him to create closure. And then he has more space to drive, and when he does, he has great vision. Obviously, he can stretch out and finish, but I think what makes him unique is not just his ability to find people, but his will.”
More than anything, Snyder sees the hard work Johnson is putting in to get better, and says he’s working with him on more things as the season continues.
“I think the humility he’s had throughout this process is kind of understanding, ‘Hey, I’m not that good at this, but I’m going to work at it and keep getting better,'” Snyder said. “Usually you see a guys work on something, get more comfortable with it, start doing it in practice, do it in the game, and get better and better at it. I think that’s what we’re seeing with him.”
The point now is that Johnson’s play has to lead to wins for the Hawks. It was earlier in the season, but they’ve hit a bump, and hopefully they’ll find some momentum sooner rather than later.
2025-12-28 07:42:00
