The NBA will test every player differently, but the one commonality is the pressure that every star plays under. It’s a rite of passage for the highest-paid player on every roster, and it’s clear Jalen Johnson is still adjusting to this role for the Atlanta Hawks.
Johnson’s struggles force Hawks fans to question franchise centerpiece
He’s been at the heart of Hawks fans' rants on X after two heartbreaking losses to the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers. The newly minted All-Star played well against NY, finishing the game with 21 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists.
Most fans didn't remember any of his highlights from the game because everyone remembered the final image of Jalen’s layup attempt clanking off the rim in the final seconds. You saw Johnson drop his head in disappointment as he ran back on defense, and Atlanta would fall to New York a few seconds later, 108-105.
Although it was a great learning experience, the Hawks would be taught another lesson by the Cleveland Cavaliers, losing 122-116. Their future Hall of Fame backcourt combined for 52 points en route to their 51st victory of the season, but the biggest story of the night in Hawks circles was Johnson’s bad performance.
It was arguably his worst performance of the season, finishing his 34-minute appearance with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists while shooting 4-of-16 from the field. Seeing him struggle in a nationally televised game led to a barrage of scrutiny from the fanbase.
They expressed doubt in the 24-year-old’s ability to lead his team to victory. JJ is known for his resiliency, so the world will literally be watching as he laces up for round two. The rematch will take place on Prime Video, setting the stage for another highly-viewed skirmish between the fourth & fifth seeds in the Eastern Conference.
Filling the shoes of a four-time All-Star and No.1 option
Becoming a franchise player comes wth growing pains, and Johnson is certainly developing in real time. Regardless of Trae Young’s polarizing status, his reputation as a closer in Atlanta was irrefutable.Â
He hit multiple game-winners in the regular season and the NBA Playoffs as well. Young always knew what to do in the final moments and always had the confidence to take the last shot, even if it meant going for a floater at 6-foot-1 with the game on the line.Â
Fans will have to be patient and allow Johnson to apply the teachings of his former co-star. It can be a lot to ask for to suddenly take on such a massive responsibility, especially with the postseason on the horizon.Â
Each playoff game will offer its own mental and physical battles, certainly if Johnson faces Cleveland’s front court for a seven-game series. We’re aware of his potential, but moments like this will let us know how high his ceiling truly is.Â