The Atlanta Hawks extended their winning streak to four games with a 124-121 comeback victory over the Brooklyn Nets. Jalen Johnson returned with 30 points, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Aaron Wiggins added 20 apiece.
Yet Dyson Daniels delivered perhaps the most revealing performance of the night. His nine points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, six steals and one block demonstrated why evaluating him solely through his scoring misses what makes him indispensable.
Daniels' historic milestone demands a broader evaluation
According to Brett Siegel of Clutch Points, Daniels became the first player since Scottie Pippen in 1994 to record at least 100 points, 75 rebounds, 50 assists and 30 steals through the first 11 games of a season. Daniels has accumulated 108 points, 79 rebounds, 60 assists and 32 steals.
Those numbers matter because they highlight four different responsibilities. Daniels isn't simply generating steals; he's securing rebounds, initiating offense and keeping teammates involved while contributing as a scorer.
Against Brooklyn, that versatility was particularly apparent. Atlanta trailed by as many as 17 points before fighting back, and Daniels helped create additional opportunities through defensive disruption and activity on the glass.
The shooting criticism remains fair. Opponents can challenge Atlanta's spacing by helping off Daniels on the perimeter, and improving his jumper would make him a more complete offensive threat.
But treating that weakness as proof he cannot contribute offensively ignores how possessions develop. A defensive stop can become a transition opportunity, while a timely pass or offensive rebound can create another quality scoring chance.
Hawks' on-off numbers reinforce Daniels' value
The broader numbers tell a similar story. According to an early-season Databallr snapshot, Atlanta has posted a plus-8.3 net rating with Daniels playing compared to minus-6.5 without him.
On-off statistics aren't proof that one player single-handedly creates that difference. Teammates, matchups and a limited sample matter, but such a contrast deserves attention alongside what Daniels contributes.
His ability to pressure ball handlers and disrupt passing lanes fits alongside Lu Dort and Alexander-Walker. Meanwhile, his rebounding and passing allow Johnson to attack without having to manufacture every opportunity himself.
That balance becomes particularly important when Atlanta struggles offensively. Daniels can keep the Hawks competitive through defense and effort while other players carry more of the scoring responsibilities.
None of this means Daniels should stop improving his outside shot. It means the Hawks shouldn't judge his season exclusively by whether his shooting percentage improves.
Atlanta's four-game winning streak reinforces that winning contributions come in different forms. Daniels' historic start makes a compelling case that his greatest strengths are already making a difference.
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