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December 03, 2025
Jalen Johnson’s second leap shows the Hawks aren’t just Trae Young’s team anymore
Jalen Johnson's star leap for Hawks is full of lessons for NBA teams
**Jalen Johnson’s second leap shows the Hawks aren’t just Trae Young’s team anymore**
Atlanta Hawks fans are witnessing the emergence of a potential star, and it’s not who many expected. While Trae Young has long been the face of the franchise, Jalen Johnson's impressive growth this season is proving the Hawks have more to offer than just their dazzling point guard. Johnson's "second leap," as many analysts are calling it, is not just a flash in the pan; it's a testament to his hard work and the Hawks' developmental system, offering valuable lessons for other NBA teams.
After a relatively quiet start to his NBA career, Johnson is showcasing a vastly improved skillset and a newfound confidence on the court. He’s demonstrating a more assertive presence, contributing significantly on both offense and defense. This transformation is a clear indicator of the dedication he's put into honing his game, particularly in areas like rebounding, perimeter shooting, and defensive versatility.
Johnson's impact extends beyond simply scoring points. He's become a reliable rebounder, often battling bigger players for crucial possessions. His improved perimeter shooting forces defenses to respect him beyond the arc, creating more space for Young and other Hawks players to operate. Defensively, he’s showing the ability to guard multiple positions, a crucial asset in today's NBA where versatility is highly valued.
This breakout season highlights the importance of patience and player development. The Hawks' coaching staff deserves credit for identifying Johnson's potential and providing him with the opportunities and guidance needed to flourish. It's a reminder that not all players reach their peak immediately, and investing in young talent can yield significant rewards down the line.
Johnson's rise also underscores the importance of building a well-rounded team. While having a superstar like Trae Young is undoubtedly valuable, relying solely on one player can make a team predictable and easier to defend. Johnson's emergence provides the Hawks with a much-needed secondary scoring option and a more balanced attack, making them a more dangerous opponent overall. His development serves as a model for other NBA teams seeking to build sustainable success through strategic player development and a focus on team-oriented basketball.
Atlanta Hawks fans are witnessing the emergence of a potential star, and it’s not who many expected. While Trae Young has long been the face of the franchise, Jalen Johnson's impressive growth this season is proving the Hawks have more to offer than just their dazzling point guard. Johnson's "second leap," as many analysts are calling it, is not just a flash in the pan; it's a testament to his hard work and the Hawks' developmental system, offering valuable lessons for other NBA teams.
After a relatively quiet start to his NBA career, Johnson is showcasing a vastly improved skillset and a newfound confidence on the court. He’s demonstrating a more assertive presence, contributing significantly on both offense and defense. This transformation is a clear indicator of the dedication he's put into honing his game, particularly in areas like rebounding, perimeter shooting, and defensive versatility.
Johnson's impact extends beyond simply scoring points. He's become a reliable rebounder, often battling bigger players for crucial possessions. His improved perimeter shooting forces defenses to respect him beyond the arc, creating more space for Young and other Hawks players to operate. Defensively, he’s showing the ability to guard multiple positions, a crucial asset in today's NBA where versatility is highly valued.
This breakout season highlights the importance of patience and player development. The Hawks' coaching staff deserves credit for identifying Johnson's potential and providing him with the opportunities and guidance needed to flourish. It's a reminder that not all players reach their peak immediately, and investing in young talent can yield significant rewards down the line.
Johnson's rise also underscores the importance of building a well-rounded team. While having a superstar like Trae Young is undoubtedly valuable, relying solely on one player can make a team predictable and easier to defend. Johnson's emergence provides the Hawks with a much-needed secondary scoring option and a more balanced attack, making them a more dangerous opponent overall. His development serves as a model for other NBA teams seeking to build sustainable success through strategic player development and a focus on team-oriented basketball.
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