Porzingis Highlights, Jalen Johnson Shines: Key Hawks Takeaways

The Atlanta Hawks have experienced a tumultuous start to the 2025-26 NBA season. Following a challenging home opener against the Toronto Raptors, which Trae Young characterized as “embarrassing,” they rebounded with a thrilling comeback victory over the Orlando Magic. However, they faced setbacks in their next two games, suffering a 17-point defeat at the hands of defending champions Oklahoma City and a narrow loss to the Chicago Bulls. Most recently, the Hawks faced the Brooklyn Nets, claiming a much-needed victory despite a severe injury to Young.

Key Injuries Impacting the Hawks

Trae Young exited the matchup against the Nets with a knee injury after colliding with Mouhamed Gueye. Postgame comments from head coach Quin Snyder indicated that the injury was not an ACL tear. Young is scheduled for an MRI, but a definitive timeline for his recovery is yet to be established.

As of now, the Hawks hold a record of 2-3. The team is averaging 1.11 points per possession offensively, ranking in the bottom ten of the league, while their defense allows 1.18 points per possession. Injuries have already plagued the roster this season, with Kristaps Porzingis and Zaccharie Risacher missing the Orlando game. Jalen Johnson was also sidelined during the Oklahoma City matchup, but all three players have since returned for the last two contests.

Upcoming Games and Performance Analytics

• Next up, the Hawks face the Indiana Pacers and then the Cleveland Cavaliers. Following that, they will return home to play against Orlando, Toronto, and Los Angeles.
• With Young sidelined, the Hawks will need to rely on their depth to fill the scoring void.

Utilizing Kristaps Porzingis

Atlanta brought in Kristaps Porzingis not just for his three-point shooting but also for his elite post-scoring ability. Over the past two seasons, he has posted an impressive 1.25 points per post-up possession, the highest among players averaging two or more post-ups per game. While early in the season he struggled to find consistent matchups, recent games indicate the Hawks are strategically using his size against smaller defenders.

In the last games, Porzingis demonstrated effective post scoring, especially against mismatched opponents. His contributions will be vital in the absence of Young, as the Hawks look to balance their offensive attack.

Jalen Johnson’s Performance

Jalen Johnson continues to impress this season, playing in four of the five games and averaging 20.5 points with a true shooting percentage of 59%. He is also recording 7 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game.

Notably, Johnson has shown remarkable efficiency near the basket, converting 76.7% of his attempts at the rim. He has thrived in transition and effectively utilized his physicality in half-court situations. However, his defense could improve, and his three-point shooting has been less effective so far.

Who Will Step Up in Young’s Absence?

As the team waits for updates on Trae Young’s knee injury, it is clear that other players must elevate their play. The Hawks have had a significant drop in offensive rating when Young is off the floor. Potential candidates to fill the void include Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Dyson Daniels, and Jalen Johnson for ball-handling duties. Each player brings solid passing skills to the table.

Additionally, Keaton Wallace, a second-year pro, could see increased minutes. His defensive skills and solid decision-making make him a favorable option for head coach Quin Snyder. Vit Krejci may also contribute off the bench, given his experience shooting from beyond the arc.

Looking Ahead

Although it is still early in the season, the Hawks must address their defensive woes, as they are currently allowing high second-chance points and points in the paint. The team’s early struggles in rebounding percentage and three-point shooting efficiency are areas to watch as the season progresses.

With Kristaps Porzingis and Jalen Johnson stepping up, the Hawks will need all hands on deck as they navigate through the season, particularly in the absence of their star guard. As the team adjusts their offensive strategy, maintaining composure and performance will be critical moving forward.