The Atlanta Hawks have struggled at the start of the season. Without exception, this team has struggled during this time with most of John Collins’ road performances being a rare highlight. Trae Young has stepped up during the road swing but it has not been enough.
This has led to a solid losing streak which could impact the Hawks’ playoff positioning at the end of the season. However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel with the Hawks scheduling easing off. This will give them a chance to build some momentum over the next month.
However, there are aspects of the rotations that need to change. With the exception of Cam Reddish, the Hawks bench has struggled. Kevin Huerter showed a glimpse of what he was capable of getting buckets against the Utah Jazz. However, given his performance against the Denver Nuggets, it is too early to say he is back.
The Atlanta Hawks need to shake up their bench.
With the exception of Reddish, the Hawks bench has underperformed so far on the season. It seems that they have struggled to get any rhythm or momentum. So, when they get home after another road loss, this time against the Denver Nuggets, they should work Jalen Johnson into the rotation.
Right now he would be taking the minutes of Danilo Gallinari and this would not be a problem as the big Italian has been a bit of an empty uniform. He has only scored in double figures twice so far this season and is averaging less than 7.0 points per game. This is not enough production from the veteran.
Johnson struggled in his first G-League game but then showed that he could bounce back in the second one. The All-Summer league 1st team member could surely add the spark and life that has been missing from the Hawks squad.
The College Park Skyhawks do not play against until the 17th of November so there is very little to lose and potentially a massive gain for the Hawks. It will be interesting to see if Nate McMillan follows through on his statement that if you are not producing at both ends of the court he will go to someone who is.