Imagine being down by 11 points in the final quarter, only to storm back and secure a victory—that's exactly what the Atlanta Hawks did in a thrilling showdown against the Brooklyn Nets. But here's where it gets controversial: Was it Jalen Johnson's career-night performance or the Nets' late-game collapse that truly defined this matchup? Let's dive in.
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, Jalen Johnson delivered a standout performance, scoring 26 points and grabbing 12 rebounds to lead the Hawks to a 115-104 comeback win over the Nets. This victory snapped the Hawks' recent home struggles while extending the Nets' losing streak to four games. Johnson's heroics were on full display during a decisive 24-2 run in the final 8 minutes, where he scored 12 points and silenced any doubts about his impact on the court.
And this is the part most people miss: The Hawks' bench played a pivotal role in the turnaround. Jock Landale, for instance, scored 17 points in just 16 minutes, hitting all three of his 3-point attempts. Meanwhile, Onyeka Okongwu delivered a highlight-reel dunk over Nic Claxton, finishing with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks. Even CJ McCollum, in his first start since joining the Hawks in the Trae Young trade, contributed 16 points and eight rebounds, showcasing the team's newfound depth.
For the Nets, Michael Porter Jr. led the way with 18 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while Claxton returned from injury to post 15 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. However, Brooklyn's offense sputtered in the closing minutes, missing 11 of their final 12 field-goal attempts and going 0-for-10 from 3-point range during the Hawks' rally.
Here’s a bold take: Could the Nets' late-game struggles be a symptom of deeper issues, or was this simply an off night? And for the Hawks, is this the start of a new era with Johnson and McCollum at the helm? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Adding to the intrigue, No. 1 overall pick Zaccaharie Risacher came off the bench for just the second time in his career, scoring seven points. While his role remains in flux, his potential is undeniable.
Looking ahead, the Nets host the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday, while the Hawks welcome the Washington Wizards. Will Brooklyn bounce back, or will Atlanta continue their momentum? Only time will tell.
What’s your take on this game? Was it a statement win for the Hawks or a missed opportunity for the Nets? Share your thoughts below!
