Hawks’ Jalen Johnson Out for Season with Shoulder Injury

ATLANTA, Ga. — Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson will undergo season-ending surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, the team announced Wednesday. The 23-year-old rising star is expected to make a full recovery in time for the start of the 2025-26 NBA season.

Johnson sustained the injury during a Jan. 23 game against the Toronto Raptors while attempting to block a layup. He has missed the Hawks’ last three games, including Tuesday’s 100-96 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The injury marks a devastating blow for the Hawks, who are already struggling with a 22-25 record and sit in ninth place in the Eastern Conference.

This season, Johnson had been a breakout performer, averaging career highs of 18.9 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. His absence leaves a significant void in the lineup, as the Hawks have been outscored by 9.3 points per 100 possessions when Johnson is off the court, compared to outscoring opponents by 3.1 points when he plays.

“Jalen’s emergence has been the most fun storyline in Atlanta this season,” said a team insider. “His versatility on defense, transition play, and chemistry with Trae Young have been crucial to our identity.”

The Hawks’ injury woes extend beyond Johnson. Key players such as Clint Capela (left adductor injury management), De'Andre Hunter (back spasms), and Bogdan Bogdanovic (personal reasons) have also been sidelined recently. Saddiq Bey, who returned from a fractured hand in late December, missed Tuesday’s game as part of injury management.

With the NBA trade deadline approaching on Feb. 6, the Hawks’ front office faces tough decisions. Johnson’s injury could shift the team’s strategy, potentially making them sellers rather than buyers. However, trading assets for future picks is complicated by the fact that Atlanta owes its first-round pick to the San Antonio Spurs as part of a previous deal.

Despite the setbacks, the Hawks remain in contention for a play-in tournament spot. However, Johnson’s absence significantly diminishes their chances of making a deep playoff run. The team will now rely heavily on Trae Young and other role players to keep their postseason hopes alive.