The Atlanta Hawks delivered one of their most impressive performances of the young season Thursday night, defeating the Utah Jazz 132–122 on the road. Playing without several key players Atlanta showcased depth, resilience, and elite shot-making which was a combination that overwhelmed Utah in the final minutes.
Atlanta wasted no time asserting control. The Hawks opened the night by draining 15 three-pointers in the first half, a franchise record, punctuated by a scorching stretch from Vit Krejci, who went a perfect 5-for-5 from deep before halftime. The Hawks were 24-47 on their three-pointers.
The hot shooting created early separation and forced Utah into constant defensive adjustments. By halftime, the Hawks had total control of the game’s pace and spacing. Utah struggled to keep up with the Hawks’ shooters, and by the break Atlanta had built a comfortable cushion that would prove vital as the game tightened later.
While the Hawks have seen flashes of Jalen Johnson’s potential, Thursday night felt like the moment he officially entered the league-wide spotlight.
Johnson delivered a stunning 31-point, 18-rebound, 14-assist, 7-steal performance a rare combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive pressure. Johnson put together one of the most complete games of his young career and one of the best individual performances of the NBA season.
Whenever the Hawks needed stability, Johnson provided it. He organized the offense, attacked mismatches, and repeatedly created momentum-shifting plays on both ends.
The Jazz made their push in the third quarter, outscoring Atlanta 36–23 and briefly taking a 106–103 lead early in the fourth. Lauri Markkanen led Utah with 40 points, and rookie Ace Bailey added a career-high 21.
However, Atlanta quickly answered with an 8–0 run and regained control. Strong team defense and crucial late possessions allowed the Hawks to put the game away. Johnson fourth-quarter presence, in particular, steadied Atlanta during Utah’s late push.
If Johnson was the catalyst, Onyeka Okongwu was the knockout punch.
Okongwu erupted for 32 points and 11 rebounds, drilling eight three-pointers, the most of his career. His expanded shooting range stretched Utah’s defense to the breaking point, opening lanes for cutters and forcing the Jazz into uncomfortable rotations all night.
For a Hawks team that has emphasized versatility and skill development under Quin Snyder, Okongwu’s performance signals a potential leap in his offensive arsenal. Atlanta will finish up the road trip against Phoenix on Sunday.