"From rookie quarterback to veteran quarterback" - Doc Rivers links Hawks’ $150 million forward to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s playing style
Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers offered high praise for Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson ahead of their NBA Cup semifinal game on Saturday. Rivers compared Johnson, a former Duke standout, to two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, citing his rapid growth as a professional basketball player.
Doc Rivers expressed his admiration for Jalen Johnson during a news conference on Saturday, highlighting the young forward's decision-making skills and comparing his growth to that of a seasoned veteran.
“We play against that every day in practice. That’s Giannis in a lot of ways… Jalen has improved his decision making at a rapid pace. He’s gone from a rookie quarterback to a veteran quarterback.”
Jalen Johnson this season has shown incredible growth and development. His performance for the Hawks can be attributed to improved decision-making, athleticism and work ethic.
His numbers have also risen and he has become a reliable double-double threat for the Hawks, with 13 this season. He is averaging 19.8 points, 10.1 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game.
Johnson's growth hasn't gone unnoticed. He was named to ESPN's NBA 25 Under 25 list, recognizing his emergence as one of the league's top young players. The Hawks have also taken notice, rewarding him with a five-year, $150 million contract extension in October.
Doc Rivers also praised Atlanta Hawks' Trae Young
Coach Doc Rivers also had kind words to say about Hawks star Trae Young. He asserted that Young has earned the trust of his teammates.
"He's earned the trust of his players. This team likes playing with him. That's obvious. I couldn't say that in the past, but now they love playing with him."
Trae Young's leadership has been called into question by an NBA insider who saw his introverted nature as an issue. However, Rivers sees the situation differently and believes Young has grown into the role.
The Hawks with Trae Young have impressed this season. They've earned well-deserved victories against the East's top-ranked Cleveland Cavaliers and the NBA champions, Boston Celtics.
However, the Hawks fell 110-102 to the Bucks, who have sealed their spot in the NBA Cup finals.