Jalen Johnson is on an absolute tear. The fifth-year forward out of Duke has been playing the best basketball of his life over the last week, and Tuesday night's game against the Detroit Pistons was no different.
Fans and personnel around the league are uncovering new strengths of Johnson's game every day. That could be what makes him so special as a player. Versatility is a must-have for a modern NBA power forward, and this is where Johnson excels.
When looking at some of the best forwards in the league today, their on-court versatility is what stands out. They can score 30 on any given night, defend multiple positions, handle the ball, locate their open teammates and shoot at an efficient clip from beyond the arc.
Atlanta has been longing for a player who fits that mold ever since Paul Millsap left. John Collins did a fine job but was often limited on the offensive end. He was a decent outside shooter and quality rebounder, but did not possess an NBA-level handle.
When his shooting percentages took a major dip, Atlanta shipped him off to Utah, as they were looking for a particular skill set in their power forward. They lucked out in the 2021 NBA Draft when the perfect fit was still on the board at pick 20.
Jalen's game was far from complete at the time, and he continues to add to his bag.
Johnson's game was raw coming into the league and he certainly was not known as a shooter. Over the years, the improvements in all categories of his game have been remarkable. He has blossomed into one of the better playmakers and rim-runners in the league at his position.
One part of his game, however, has taken its time to develop. Jalen's outside shot has never been a sure thing. In previous years, he has been reluctant to let it fly. He would often hesitate whenever he got an open look, leading to a contested shot or stalled possession.
He started off this new season shooting poorly from three once again, but has since gotten it together in a major way. In his previous four games before Tuesday night, Johnson was averaging just under four attempts from three and knocking down over 50% of them.
Jalen's confidence is at an all-time high.
— Zach Langley (@langleyatl) November 19, 2025
Him pulling these threes with zero hesitation should have the league terrified.
This newfound ability from deep has unlocked his game and allowed him to perform better in other departments. In Tuesday night's loss to the red-hot Pistons, Johnson went 3/8 from the outside. While the splits look great, the volume is what really stood out.
It could not be clearer that Jalen has taken his development as a shooter very seriously. If this confidence and efficiency from deep continue to be a relevant aspect of his game, Johnson will soon become one of the most terrifying forwards in the NBA.