Although CJ McCullom left Madison Square Garden as the new villain, Hawks star Jalen Johnson had to avenge three quarters of an abysmal performance. The newly minted All-Star finished the first half with four points after shooting 0-4 from the field.
He adjusted to Josh Hart's physicality and showcased his potential to become a playoff riser. The adaptability has warranted respect, given the fact that it’s his first series as “The Guy.”
Jalen Johnson finally quelled his trepidation for the moment
It’s not to be mistaken: CJ McCollum is the reason the Hawks evened the series as they prepare to fly home for Games 3 and 4. Nonetheless, Johnson was able to make a vital impact in the second half and finished the game with a solid stat line.
The former Duke Blue Devil ended his second playoff game as a franchise player with 17 points, eight rebounds, and three assists. It’s evident he was able to calm his nerves and finally slow down.
He’s also adjusting to the lack of a whistle for an opposing team in the playoffs, and it’s increased his aggression. Johnson got to the line and made five out of five free throws, one more than his total from Game 1.
On paper, it doesn’t seem significant, but it’s a sign that he’s shedding his indecisiveness. It’s the perfect timing as Johnson and his flock of Hawks prepare to defend their nest, State Farm Arena.
Stealing Game 2 was an unforeseen result that only die-hard fans would’ve predicted. Now with momentum on their side, it’s only natural that Johnson will take it a step further, and the same with Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
Both have yet to really make their imprint on the series, and the Hawks have been competitive in the previous two games. We have yet to see this team's full potential in the playoffs.
Kuminga's physicality is the key to stopping Towns
Newest Hawk Jonathan Kuminga proved his value to even the biggest skeptics, finishing with 19 points and four rebounds off the bench. JK leading the second unit was the biggest difference in Atlanta's 107-106 win, adding help on the glass and defensive end.
He was relatively non-existent in the first game, and his redemption in Game 2 revealed another key adjustment for the Hawks. Head coach Quin Snyder defended Knicks star Center Karl Anthony-Towns with the Congolese native, and it’s likely he’ll do the same in Game 3 after seeing the success of their new strategy.
If Johnson and Kuminga can keep the ball rolling into Game 3, they will have a shot.
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