This significant adjustment will tip the Knicks series on its head

We saw Atlanta's beloved Hawks suffer defeat against the New York Knicks in the opening act of what will be a drama-filled series between the two teams. It was an exhilarating first half filled with elite shot-making, but the Hawks' hot shooting would freeze over in the third quarter. 

New York would take advantage of their cold streak and run up a lead for the remainder of the game, defeating the Hawks 113-102. It’s only Game 1, but if they want to avoid a 2-0 deficit, Jalen Johnson must prove he has real superstar potential.

A small adjustment, but a massive difference for the Hawks

The biggest thing that stuck out in the first half was Jalen Johnson’s lack of aggression. It was understandable since the 24-year-old had never felt such pressure in his life. Although he came on strong in the second half, his initial struggles led to an 8-of-19 finish by the end of the game.

His 42 percent field goal percentage was a product of soft layups around the rim, and this has been a weakness of the All-Star. Johnson has numerous highlights of emphatic dunks with and without contact. 

Ever since his left labrum healed from last season, he’s been able to absorb contact better. He must use his newfound strength to offset the Knicks’ defense in Game 2. Pundits who’ve watched Jalen all season certainly noticed a difference in his play, and he must nullify his trepidation for the moment if the Hawks want to advance to the second round.

Fighting fire with fire is key

Other than Josh Hart and OG Anunoby, no other Knick was able to contain him defensively. Josh and OG do an excellent job of being physical with Johnson, forcing him to dribble or pass. To offset their attack, he must fight fire with fire.

We’ve seen numerous other point forwards, most notably LeBron James, meet their opposing defenders with fierce penetration. Jalen has learned from the four-time MVP in the past, and he possesses a similar skillset with the same frame at 6-foot-9. 

All he has to do is unleash his inner alpha dog and that only comes with confidence. Nickeil Alexander-Walker and CJ McCullom will always be reliable on offense, but they must follow Johnson's lead to become serious contenders.

Increasing Johnson’s defensive gravity will create scoring opportunities for the supporting cast. All of the five-out line-ups were successful in the first half, and they can maintain it all game if Johnson commands the attention like a traditional NBA superstar.

It’s the only way the Hawks can gain respect and even the series; it all starts with their newly minted All-Star. If they drop Game 2 even with a stronger performance from their centerpiece, then it’s time to change the rotations to defend the State Farm Arena. 

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