Jalen Johnson, the Atlanta Hawks’ 22-year-old forward, has emerged as a cornerstone for his team in the 2024-25 season. Averaging career highs of 20.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 36.4 minutes per game, Johnson’s breakout year has drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic, and Domantas Sabonis.
During a recent interview with Spencer Davies of Responsible Gambling, Johnson shared his perspective on his growth and the trust he has earned from the Hawks’ coaching staff and teammates.
“It’s just playing basketball, trusting my teammates, and letting everything come naturally,” he said. His rise comes as a product of hard work, relentless repetition, and a willingness to embrace greater responsibility on the court.
Johnson’s all-around contributions set him apart. He’s not only averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds but also ranks among the league’s best in defensive stats, with consistent steals and blocks. He leads Atlanta in minutes played and defensive rebounds, demonstrating his critical role in the team’s success.
Hawks head coach Quin Snyder praised Johnson’s hunger and openness to growth. Snyder highlighted how Johnson’s offseason work and resilience after injuries last year have paved the way for his expanded role. “He has an excellent feel for the game and reads the court well,” Snyder noted.
Teammates Clint Capela and De’Andre Hunter also spoke highly of Johnson’s development. Capela emphasized his strong work ethic, saying, “He’s been in the gym twice a day since his rookie year, and now we’re seeing the results.” Hunter added, “He’s young, but he’s already taking on big responsibilities and doing it well.”
Johnson’s on-court highlights reflect his versatility. Whether it’s running the floor, facilitating plays, or finishing with electrifying dunks, he’s proving to be a dynamic force. Against the Dallas Mavericks, he wowed the crowd with a behind-the-back pass to Trae Young, followed by an alley-oop dunk.
When asked about his performance, Johnson humbly credited his team’s chemistry. “It’s just trusting my teammates and coaches,” he said. “Good ball movement is a product of that trust.” His commitment to improving every facet of his game has solidified his status as one of the Hawks’ most reliable players.
Johnson’s ability to contribute across the board has drawn attention league-wide. Only a few players match his statistical output this season, and none offer the unique combination of skills he brings. “If you watch basketball and understand it at a high level, you appreciate what I can do,” Johnson told Davies.
Despite his breakout season, Johnson remains focused on growth. Snyder believes Johnson is far from reaching his ceiling, especially on defense. “He’s got to continue focusing on defense as he takes on tougher matchups,” Snyder said. “It’s a process, but he’s committed to getting better.”
For Johnson, the goal is consistency. “I want to play as consistently as possible and help the team win games,” he said. His dedication to improvement, coupled with his natural talent, has the Hawks’ organization and fans excited about his future.
