The Atlanta Hawks face challenges as they prepare to host the Dallas Mavericks, particularly when it comes to Jalen Johnson’s shot selection. While Johnson has immense potential, his shooting efficiency has declined, largely due to the increase in fewer effective shots from floating distance. Despite these struggles, he is on pace for a career year with impressive per-game stats, including 19.4 points and 10.4 rebounds. The Hawks are currently 7-10, and their recent two-game losing streak underscores the urgency of a turnaround.

Through the numbers

• Jalen Johnson’s shooting efficiency on two-point shots has fallen to the worst of his career this season.
• Johnson has a career-best 71% shooting percentage at the rim (59-83).
• The Hawks have an on-off differential of plus 11.0 when Johnson is on the field; without him it drops to minus 12.2.

Yes but

Despite his shooting issues, Johnson’s overall impact on the game and growth potential could outweigh the current inefficiencies. Additionally, the team’s performance was impacted by injuries and chemistry issues that have yet to be resolved.

state of affairs

• The Hawks are currently 7-10 this season, including 4-4 ​​at home.
• They have lost three of their last four games and are on a two-game losing streak.
• 19 of the last 33 games are played at home, raising hopes of improvement.

What’s next?

As the Hawks look to bounce back against the Mavericks, focusing on improving shot selection and maximizing their home games could be crucial to their season progression. Continuing player integration will be critical to building team chemistry.

Conclusion

To be successful, the Hawks will need to refine Jalen Johnson’s shot selection while taking advantage of their home-court advantage. If they can improve their performance despite the current difficulties, they have a real chance of turning their season around.