Jalen Johnson’s stunning New Year's Eve game confirms what Hawks fans already knew

The Atlanta Hawks returned home Wednesday afternoon to take on Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves, where they won 126-102.

The Hawks came into the New Year's Eve matchup in desperation mode. They had lost each of their last seven games and were searching for any bit of momentum heading into 2026. 

Picking up a win against a thriving Western Conference opponent was always going to be a tough task. Despite their tough schedule and aging roster, the Timberwolves came into Wednesday’s matchup with an impressive 21-12 record. 

They were coming off of a dominant victory over the Chicago Bulls, a team that has had the Hawks’ number all season. 

On the flip side, Atlanta’s last on-court action saw them giving up 140 points to the defending champions, extending their losing streak to seven games.

December has been a horrendous month. It was well beyond time for the Hawks to flip the script on the season.

Jalen Johnson clearly wanted to go into 2026 on a high note.

Who else? Despite the nightmare month in terms of team record, Johnson has been playing at an extremely high level.

In the month of December, before Wednesday's matchup, Atlanta's fifth-year forward was averaging 25.0 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 10.5 assists per game. The only player putting up those numbers or better is three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. Elite company.

He came into the game against Minnesota with an aggressive mindset. He wanted to make his presence felt early, and he did just that.

Within the first few minutes of the game, Johnson had already recorded eight points. Two of his first three baskets of the night were from beyond the arc, showcasing a new level of confidence in his outside shot.

It wasn't long before he eclipsed double digits. If the Hawks were going to extend their lead before halftime, they needed Johnson to remain just as effective as a scorer in the second frame.

It was almost impossible for him not to keep up the same level of intensity.

Minnesota was treating him like a role player. Their severe lack of defensive pressure on Atlanta's star forward did not go well for them in the first half.

Johnson entered the second half with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists on an efficient 8/13 from the field. He was scoring at all levels and getting to his spots with genuine ease.

Even with the Hawks leading by over 20 points at half, they needed to keep up the pressure in the second half if they wanted to knock off this resilient Timberwolves team. Jalen Johnson continued to answer the call.

In the third quarter, Johnson was once again able to dominate offensively. Not only was he scoring at will, but he made sure to showcase his underrated playmaking ability.

One specific sequence in the third saw Johnson grabbing a rebound and throwing a full-court pass to the trailing Zaccharie Risacher for a monster slam. His court vision was on full display.

He finished the night with 34 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists on 15/22 from the field and 3/6 from three.

Johnson dominating in an important game like this is not new. This season, he has consistently shown that a moment is never too large for him.

As Atlanta progresses into the new year, Jalen Johnson's role will continue to grow, as will his respect around the league as a clear first option.

Happy New Year, Hawks fans!