Jalen Johnson delivered a standout performance with an NBA career-high 28 points, propelling the Atlanta Hawks to a narrow 141-138 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, thus halting the Thunder’s five-game winning streak.
From the outset, Atlanta took command with an 11-0 run and maintained the lead throughout the game. Trae Young contributed significantly with 24 points and 11 assists, joining three other Hawks players scoring over 20 points. Bogdan Bogdanovic and Dejounte Murray added 23 and 22 points, respectively.
“He’s going to have more career-high nights,” Young said of Johnson. “My standard is high for Jalen.”
Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led his team with 33 points and 13 rebounds, while Jalen Williams chipped in with 21 points. Despite trailing considerably for most of the game, the Thunder made a late surge. Gilgeous-Alexander’s efforts in the final minute cut Atlanta’s lead down, but the team fell short as Isaiah Joe’s last-second three-point attempt missed the mark.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jalen Johnson, Atlanta Hawks, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the team’s struggle, conceding that they played on Atlanta’s terms and were outperformed. The Hawks, looking to improve their 5-9 home record, will be aiming to capitalize on their upcoming schedule with 10 of 15 games in January at their home court.
“We didn’t have our best night, obviously, but I thought we stuck together and stayed in it,” Daigneault said. “We kind of played on their terms tonight. They outplayed us tonight.”
Johnson’s scoring spree, including a notable dunk over Chet Holmgren, was a game highlight. In his third season, Johnson’s increased playtime is showing results, with this game marking another career high in steals.
“I think it’s huge, especially since we started the new year off with a win,” Johnson said. “I think it was a great start for our team. Hopefully, we can get something out of that.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jalen Johnson, Atlanta Hawks, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
The Thunder faced the additional challenge of back-to-back games, including a late flight from Oklahoma City to Atlanta, which seemed to impact their energy levels. The Hawks capitalized on this, leading by 76-59 at halftime, bolstered by their fast-break play.
Clint Capela also made significant contributions for Atlanta with a double-double of 12 points and 14 rebounds, while Bogdanovic was effective from the three-point line.
Looking ahead, the Thunder will face the Brooklyn Nets, and the Hawks will meet the Indiana Pacers, both games scheduled for Friday.
