Atlanta Hawks rookie Jalen Johnson injured himself in the last period of the College Park Skyhawks loss to the Motor City Cruise. The Skyhawks had every chance to win the game but missed crucial free throws at the end of the game. Then during the overtime period missed their point-blank looks at the hoop.
The Skyhawks were in control of the game until Johnson slipped on the floor, injuring his glute which forced the Skyhawks to take him from the game. Up until this point, Johnson had been helping Cat Barber to run the offense for the team. These two are creating a tremendous core with Justin Tillman who has announced himself to the league.
However, Johnson does not seem to be able to stay on the floor. He injured his ankle in another game and his college career was impacted by a foot injury. However, this injury is different, it is not a ligament or tendon, nor is it a repetition injury.
The Atlanta Hawks need not be concerned about this latest injury.
While Johnson is now being evaluated on a day-to-day basis, his ability to take the court will be crucial for the Skyhawks season. If he injured the glute muscle then he has the potential to be out for a longer than expected period. If he has a contusion then he will be able to play sooner rather than later.
Given how talented Johnson is, there is a chance that the Skyhawks can make an impact on the post-season. If they continue to grow as a unit then there is no telling how far they can go. Johnson is crucial for making this happen given that he has so many ways of impacting the box score and the result of the game.
Given that the Skyhawks have 11 of their last 15 games at home, if they can get on a run then they have a chance at qualifying in a good position. Having Johnson on the court will have a major impact on that.