Jalen

Johnson

Johnson was the best player on the floor on Saturday, finishing three assists shy of a triple-double. The Hawks forward entered the game having totaled 33 points in his prior three appearances, shooting 12-of-30 from the field. For fantasy managers whose playoffs began with Week 19, this has not been a good time to have Johnson rostered, even with Saturday’s robust stat line. After a two-game Week 19, the Hawks play three games in Week 20.

While he didn’t record one of his usual robust stat lines, Johnson finished Wednesday’s victory one assist shy of a double-double and one block shy of a complete line. And after tallying eight points in his return to action on Sunday after missing time with a hip injury, Wednesday’s effort was suitable. Johnson will look to end Week 19 on a high note when the Hawks host the 76ers on Saturday.

Johnson was initially listed as questionable with a hip injury, but was ruled in for Sunday’s game against the Trail Blazers. Jonathan Kuminga might move back to the bench with Johnson returning, but should still be rostered in most formats.

Johnson’s absence from the Hawks’ lineup for Thursday’s win over the Wizards resulted in a start for Jonathan Kuminga, who put up 17 points and nine rebounds as part of a complete stat line. Even if Johnson returns on Sunday, Kuminga should be rostered in 12-team leagues due to what he can provide off the bench.

Johnson suffered a hip injury in the first quarter of Tuesday’s game against the Wizards and will not play in the rematch. It makes sense since the Hawks should be able to beat the Wizards without Johnson. His absence should mean extra minutes and usage for Jonathan Kuminga, who looked great in his Hawks debut on Tuesday.

Johnson suffered a left hip flexor injury during Tuesday’s win over the Wizards, exiting after playing six minutes. Jonathan Kuminga picked up additional minutes in his first appearance as a Hawk and was outstanding, scoring 27 points. Zaccharie Risacher and Mouhamed Gueye would also pick up minutes if Johnson sits, but Kuminga offers the highest fantasy upside.

Johnson only played six minutes before his exit, which will open up plenty of minutes for the reserves. Jonathan Kuminga, who is making his debut for the team, should see a nice bump in minutes, while Zaccharie Risacher and Mouhamed Gueye could play larger roles as well.

The Hawks trailed 104-97 with five minutes left in regulation before leading a furious comeback to win 115-104. Down the stretch, Johnson either scored or had an assist on all but two of the Hawks’ last 18 points. The 24-year-old small forward has provided 15th-overall per game value this season. The Hawks have three games upcoming in Week 18, starting with a matchup against the Wizards on Tuesday.

While Johnson finished Friday’s defeat with his 11th triple-double of the season, the efficiency was lacking. He kept the turnovers in check, but the 6-of-22 night from the field was one of the worst this season for the Hawks’ All-Star forward. The good news for Johnson managers is that Atlanta has another game to play in Week 17, at home against the struggling Nets on Sunday.

Johnson continues to absolutely carry the Hawks and fantasy teams alike. Over his last six games, the 24-year-old small forward is averaging 27.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, 9.7 assists and 2.2 steals. Johnson is once again filling up stat sheets with his varied skillset. He’s provided 14th-overall per game value this season, according to Basketball Monster. The Hawks face the Heat on Friday on the second night of a back-to-back.