Jalen Johnson Cleared for Full Workload as Hawks Open Camp
jalen-johnson-cleared-hawks-camp
Atlanta forward Jalen Johnson, sidelined since January by a torn labrum in his left shoulder, is back to full strength and will take part in every phase of the Hawks’ preseason, he told reporters as training camp opened.
“I’m just excited for a basketball game,” Johnson said. “It’s been a long time since January, so I’m excited to get out on the court … fully healthy going into the season.” The 22-year-old appeared to be tracking toward his first All-Star selection before the injury ended his season.
While Johnson recovered, Atlanta reshaped the roster by adding Kristaps Porziņģis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard. Head coach Quin Snyder said Johnson will take on greater playmaking duties alongside the new arrivals. “Other guys on the team benefit from Jalen because of his playmaking ability,” Snyder explained. “He’s ready to play-make even more … and we want him to let it fly when he’s in catch-and-shoot situations.”
Daniels Targets Broader Offensive Game
After winning the NBA’s Most Improved Player award last season, Hawks guard Dyson Daniels spent the summer expanding his scoring arsenal. “I worked a lot on my mid-range game, different pickups, different footwork, getting good shots,” Daniels said, noting he aimed to “develop that offensive bag.”
Jones Brings Ball Security to Orlando
Free-agent point guard Tyus Jones, owner of the league’s best assist-to-turnover ratio in each of the past six years, believes his skill set meshes with a Magic team that has struggled with giveaways. “This has been a place where I’ve had my eye on … and the time is right now,” Jones said. “I plan on making those fans happy and look forward to playing in front of them.”
Mann Healthy After Back Issues
Hornets guard Tre Mann is healthy again following a back injury that limited him to 13 games last season. Mann acknowledged “a dark time” during rehab but said he is now grateful simply to be on the court and wearing an NBA jersey.
Source: Hoops Rumors
