Hawks without Jalen Johnson against OKC
Bad news for the Hawks: Jalen Johnson will miss the game against OKC, making the road matchup against the reigning NBA champions even more complicated. Here are the latest updates
Tough blow for the Atlanta Hawks, who will face the Oklahoma City Thunder without Jalen Johnson. The team announced the forward’s absence due to illness, a significant loss given his importance within Atlanta’s system.
Johnson has been the Hawks’ best player so far, averaging 23.7 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 8.4 assists – numbers that clearly show how much his absence could hurt.
Without Jalen, a collective effort will be required, especially in terms of energy and offensive decision-making.
Member of the Hawks staff
Atlanta’s situation is further complicated by other absences: Kristaps Porzingis is out, while Trae Young is not at 100% and is questionable with a quad contusion.
With Johnson sidelined, Asa Newell and Mouhamed Gueye are expected to see increased minutes. Against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Thunder, Atlanta will need an above-average team performance to stay competitive.