Breaking: Devastating News for Hawks’ Rising Star Jalen Johnson

In devastating news for the Atlanta Hawks and rising star Jalen Johnson, the young forward has learned that he is done for the year, and will undergo season-ending shoulder surgery.

Atlanta Hawks' Jalen Johnson will undergo season-ending surgery to repair a shoulder injury, sources tell ESPN. Johnson has averaged 19 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists for the Hawks this season.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 29, 2025

Johnson suffered a torn labrum in his shoulder in a game against the Toronto Raptors last week. It's a huge blow for the emerging star and the struggling Atlanta Hawks who have fallen into a Play-In spot position (9th in the East), in the midst of a six-game losing streak.

Johnson was having a breakout season, and has averaged 19 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists, blowing away his career highs in every category, while playing over 35 minutes a game as a key member of Hawks. He was playing like an All-Star candidate.

The big question going forward is what Atlanta will do now going forward, as their potential to compete in the playoffs has taken a huge hit. They will likely do their best to get some assets for the likes of Bogdan Bogdanovic and Clint Capela at the trade deadline.