Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson had yet another breakout season last year, and a new stat from last season underscores this. The fifth-year Duke product was one of four players in the league who averaged more than 10 rebounds and 5 assists a game. The other three players to reach these averages were Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Domantas Sabonis.
This stat demonstrates the versatility of Johnson, who is one of the league's premier rebounders and playmakers at the forward position. Johnson is a tireless rebounder whose elite size and athleticism make it impossible for opponents to contain him.
Johnson was also considered a true point forward as a prospect, but he adapted his game to fill Atlanta's need for a secondary offensive option. While he plays second option with Young on the court, Johnson thrives as a creator in transition or with Young off the floor.
Johnson's versatility is a key ingredient for a deep playoff run
Johnson's combination of his slashing, playmaking, and rebounding is a perfect fit for this Hawks team. While we live in a mostly positionless era, the all-around four is back in style. Players like Pascal Siakam, Antetokounmpo, and Aaron Gordon have proven that a versatile threat on the wing can elevate any team. Johnson is the next generation of this archetype, but will he be able to achieve the success of those NBA champions?
Johnson's fit could not be any better for this team. His rebounding and physicality will allow him to alleviate the problem the Hawks have at the five. While a center rotation of Kristaps Porzingis, Onyeka Okongwu, Mouhamed Gueye, and N'Faly Dante is talented, it is not reliable. Porzingis carries injury risk, and the other three are unproven at the highest level.
His playmaking is a vital skill for this Hawks team, which can be a little top-heavy. Atlanta has done an excellent job of finding star role players, such as Nickeil Alexander-Walker. But these players cannot lead an offense effectively. Johnson and Young both can lead an offense individually, and together they keep defenses on their toes.
While Johnson isn't Antetokounmpo or Jokic, he is a rare all-around threat at the four. If he can continue to improve as he grows into his game, the sky is the limit for both him and the Hawks.