According to the National Basketball Association (NBA) injury report, Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson is all set to miss Thursday's clash against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The reason for Johnson missing the game is that he has a torn labrum in his left shoulder.
Atlanta Hawks confirm Jalen Johnson will undergo a surgery
On Wednesday, January 29, the Atlanta Hawks confirmed that Jalen Johnson will undergo surgery next week. The report further mentioned that he will miss the remainder of the season and is expected to make a comeback before the 2025-26 season.
Jalen Johnson suffered this injury in Hawks's (122-119) loss to the Toronto Raptors on January 23 as he was blocking a layup attempt by Toronto's Scottie Barnes.
Not only this, Johnson was also suffering from a right shoulder inflammation before his latest setback.
The 20th pick in the 2021 NBA draft was enjoying a great season so far with the Hawks. Johnson was averaging 18.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, 5,0 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.0 blocks per game.
What's next for Hawks and Jalen Johnson?
The injury to Jalen Johnson comes as a significant loss to the already struggling Atlanta Hawks. The Hawks have dropped six consecutive games and are ninth in the Eastern Conference with a record of (22-25).
Star guard Trae Young's performances have kept Hawks competitive but Johnson's injury adds pressure on the three-time All-Star. Young is averaging 22.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 11.4 apg and 1.3 spg.
Other players will have to step up in the absence of Jalen Johnson which includes the 2024 No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher. The rookie is still finding it tough in the top league as he averages 10.5 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.2 apg.
Shooting forward De'Andre Hunter will play a major role in the Hawks's performances in the coming matchups. Hunter will probably become the No. 2 option as he averages 19.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 1.5 apg.
The Hawks face a tough challenge ahead of them as they look to turn things in their favor after losing six games on the trot. The start of Atlanta Hawks vs Cleveland Cavaliers is scheduled at 7 pm EST.