Hawks forward meets starting criteria, increasing qualifying offer in the process
Saddiq Bey, a forward for the Hawks, made his 41st start of the year earlier this week, fulfilling the “starter criteria” for prospective restricted free […]
Atlanta Hawks
Hawks’ Trae Young sends pointed message to Rockets’ Dillon Brooks
In a closely contested game against the Houston Rockets on December 20, the Atlanta Hawks secured a hard-fought victory with a final score of 134-127. The match featured intense moments, notably the physical play of former Grizzlies player Dillon Brooks, who attempted to agitate Hawks star Trae Young throughout the game. Despite the challenges, Young remained focused on using physicality to his advantage, delivering an impressive performance with 30 points, a 55.6% shooting accuracy, and extending his streak to five consecutive games with 30 points and 10 assists—an achievement shared by only a select few in NBA history. The game also witnessed controversies, with Brooks accumulating five fouls, including a contentious incident with Onyeka Okongwu. Rockets head coach Ime Udoka had to intervene to prevent excessive complaints to the officials, resulting in fines for both Brooks and Udoka based on their behavior in the previous game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Young acknowledged the team’s challenges in the absence of players like Jalen Johnson, emphasizing the impact on team dynamics and individual roles. Despite surrendering a 20-point lead, the Hawks demonstrated resilience and growth, with Young expressing confidence in the team’s ability to improve their third-quarter performances. The return of Johnson, especially for his defensive skills, is anticipated to strengthen the Hawks as they aim for consistency in their season.
Hawks get Jalen Johnson back but could be without Trae Young vs Bulls
The Atlanta Hawks, currently standing at a 12-17 record for the season, faced a challenging stretch with a 4-10 performance after losing forward Jalen Johnson to a fractured wrist. Notably, the team struggled with a 0-2 record before Johnson’s inclusion in the starting lineup, underscoring his impact, evident in the team’s 7-5 record with him as a starter.
Jalen Johnson is set to make his comeback against the Chicago Bulls on December 26, bringing relief to the Hawks. His return, confirmed by sources on December 25, comes with notable statistics, as Johnson has been averaging 14.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and an impressive 42.5% from beyond the arc, emerging as a key player for the Hawks.
The impact of Johnson’s presence is evident in both on-court dynamics and statistical differentials. The Hawks showcase a significant plus-5.2 net efficiency differential when Johnson is on the floor, contrasting with a minus-1.8 when he’s absent, according to Cleaning the Glass.
Trae Young, the star point guard for the Hawks, openly acknowledges the team’s dependence on Johnson. Young emphasized Johnson’s contributions, expressing eagerness for his return and acknowledging the void created by his absence. Despite statistical variations with Johnson as the fifth starter, Young attributes this to broader team dynamics rather than Johnson’s individual performance.
However, as the Hawks welcome Johnson back, they face a potential setback with Trae Young’s questionable status due to a “right shoulder AC sprain.” Young, known for his historic run of 30-point, 10-assist performances, could be absent from the game against the Chicago Bulls on December 26. Young’s absence would be significant, considering his impact on the team’s net efficiency differential and scoring ability. The Hawks, with a 1-1 record without Young this season, await further updates on his availability for the upcoming matchup.