There’s no questioning Jalen Johnson’s talent after his rise to All-Star status last year. Even this season, he’s gotten off to a good start, averaging 19.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 7.2 assists.
However, he’ll never achieve his full potential if he doesn’t address one major issue.
Johnson's passiveness prevents him from reaching that next level
Johnson and the Hawks are 7-5, sitting at the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. They were in a nice rhythm after winning four games in a row, but momentum was halted by the Los Angeles Lakers.
Johnson finished the game with 15 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Heading into the matchup, everyone knew Lakers' Luka Doncic was the best player on the floor. It’s clear Johnson was swallowed by the moment.
His passivity was evident from the start. Johnson took only five shots in the first half, an unacceptable number for a player of his caliber. It’s the polar opposite approach to that of former Hawk Trae Young, who commanded the moment regardless of his polarizing playstyle.
It’s the mindset needed to lead a team, and Johnson has yet to get over this mental hurdle. Last night was a prime opportunity for him to be the second-best player on the floor, right behind a bona fide MVP candidate in Doncic.
The Hawks will only go as far as Johnson can take them. Atlanta has 70 games left on the schedule, so he'll have plenty more opportunities to dispel any negative narratives.
Atlanta will suffer if their leader doesn’t step up
November is a big month for Atlanta. They will face the Oklahoma City Thunder, Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks.
All four teams will be favored to beat the Hawks, and their rosters are headlined by superstar talent. Fans should see these matchups as litmus tests for Johnson’s abilities.
He’ll have to face a gauntlet of lethal scorers, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jayson Tatum, Jalen Brunson and Cade Cunningham. If Johnson is a true All-Star, he’ll go toe-to-toe with these established No. 1 options.
It’ll be a four-game sample size for Atlanta’s franchise player, providing valuable answers to crucial questions. If Johnson is passive again, the Hawks' chances of winning decrease dramatically, and so will their respect.
Many pundits are still skeptical about their true potential, and the media will remain incredulous if he doesn’t step up the way he’s supposed to.
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