The Atlanta Hawks are quietly putting together one of the most intriguing storylines of the early NBA season - and they’re doing it without their franchise centerpiece, Trae Young. November marked their best month since the 2016-17 campaign, and the team’s 10-5 run didn’t just keep them afloat - it vaulted them into relevance in a tightly packed Eastern Conference.
At the heart of this surge? Jalen Johnson.
The versatile forward has stepped into a leading role, and his all-around production has turned heads across the league. On a recent episode of NBA Today, Marc J.
Spears didn’t hesitate to make a bold claim: Johnson, in his view, is the MVP of the Eastern Conference so far.
“He’s the MVP of the Eastern Conference right now,” Spears said. “There’s no Trae Young, and he’s the only person in the East - and only the second in the league next to Joker - averaging 22 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists right now.”
That’s elite company. And while MVP talk in November is always a bit premature, Johnson’s impact has been undeniable.
Signed to a five-year, $150 million deal, he’s not just living up to expectations - he’s redefining them. His ability to initiate offense, rebound, and defend multiple positions has given the Hawks a new identity, one that doesn’t rely solely on Young’s playmaking.
Atlanta’s 13-8 start is their best since the lockout-shortened 2011-12 season. That kind of early-season momentum matters, especially in a conference where the standings are constantly shifting. And the fact they’re doing it without their All-Star point guard makes it even more impressive.
Of course, Spears’ take sparked some debate among the NBA Today panel. Tim MacMahon threw Cade Cunningham’s name into the ring, pointing to Detroit’s surprising rise to the top of the East standings.
Jorge Sedano made the case for Jalen Brunson, who has the Knicks sitting in second. And Ramona Shelburne backed Giannis Antetokounmpo - arguably the most dominant individual force in the league right now, even if the Bucks are off to a sluggish 9-12 start.
Still, Johnson’s numbers - and more importantly, his leadership in Young’s absence - make a compelling case. He’s been the engine behind the Hawks’ best stretch in years, and he’s doing it with a blend of poise and versatility that’s tough to find in a player his age.
As for Trae Young, there’s progress on the injury front. He’s been sidelined since October 29 after spraining the MCL in his right knee during a matchup with the Brooklyn Nets.
Initially expected to miss four weeks, Young was recently re-evaluated and will remain out for at least two more weeks. The team is encouraged by his recovery - he’s been seen taking shots during pregame warmups - but they’re playing it safe.
A mid-December return seems likely.
In the meantime, the Hawks have leaned on Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker to help fill the backcourt void. While neither can replicate Young’s offensive gravity, they’ve contributed solid minutes and helped keep the offense humming.
The real story, though, is how the Hawks have adapted. They’ve rediscovered a team-first identity, with Johnson at the center of it all.
Whether or not he’s the MVP of the East is up for debate. But there’s no question he’s been the most important player in Atlanta - and maybe the biggest reason the Hawks are back in the mix.