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NBA Insider Makes Bold Claim on Hawks Star

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin McCormick | Last updated Dec 1, 2025 9:48 PM ET

Currently sitting in sixth place in the Eastern Conference, the Atlanta Hawks have been one of the early success stories in the NBA this season. Despite being without the services of their top stars, they continue to find a way to win games. As Atlanta continues to ride its positive momentum, one key member of the roster earned high praise.

The Hawks have been without Trae Young since Oct. 29, but they've managed to fill the void left by the All-Star point guard. Among those who have stepped up in a big way is forward Jalen Johnson. Taking on a larger role in Atlanta's offense, the former first-round pick is putting up some of the best numbers of his career. Through his first 19 appearances, Johnson is averaging 22.9 points, 9.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists.

Over the weekend, Johnson put together his latest dominant outing. Fresh off notching a triple-double against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the dynamic forward shined in a double-overtime thriller against the Philadelphia 76ers. Johnson went on to end the night with 41 points, 14 rebounds and seven assists in a 142-134 win for the Hawks.

During Monday's installment of NBA Today on ESPN, insider Marc Spears gave his thoughts on the play of the Hawks forward. He confidently stated that Johnson has been the best player in the East this season.

"The MVP of the Eastern Conference right now," Spears said of Johnson.

"[Jalen Johnson] is the MVP of the Eastern Conference right now." @MarcJSpears on the Atlanta Hawks ✍️ pic.twitter.com/eoQWumVP2I
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) December 1, 2025

Players like Cade Cunningham and Tyrese Maxey deserve a mention in such a debate, but there is no denying how good Johnson has been for the Hawks. If he's able to maintain this heightened level of production, he'll be well on his way to the first All-Star nod of his career.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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