Thrilling Matchup in Atlanta
In a thrilling matchup in Atlanta, the Hawks narrowly edged the Utah Jazz 121-119, thanks to a clutch jumper by Nickeil Alexander-Walker with just 1.3 seconds remaining on the clock. This decisive shot capped off a night where Alexander-Walker contributed significantly with 23 points.
Standout Performances
The highlight for Atlanta came from recent addition Jock Landale, who shone with a season-best performance, netting 29 points. He played a pivotal role in the fourth quarter by sinking a crucial 3-pointer that shifted the momentum in the Hawks’ favor, just 45 seconds before the game’s end. Landale’s contributions didn’t stop there; he also recorded personal highs in rebounding with four blocks and provided five assists throughout the game.
Adding to the Hawks’ success, Jalen Johnson registered his third consecutive triple-double, enhancing his impressive season tally to 10, trailing only Nikola Jokic in the league. Johnson finished the night with 22 points, alongside 16 rebounds and 15 assists—showcasing his all-around game and vital impact on the match.
Game Highlights
The Hawks recently acquired Landale in a trade that saw him transition from Memphis to Utah, ultimately ending up in Atlanta just a day before this game due to cash considerations, filling in as a starter due to Onyeka Okongwu’s absence from a dental injury.
The game reached a tense climax when Jazz rookie Ace Bailey equalized at 119 with a timely 3-pointer with only nine seconds left, setting the stage for Alexander-Walker’s late-game heroics.
Jazz Contributions
Isaiah Collier, making a noteworthy mark after having his jersey retired at Wheeler High School earlier in the week, logged another full 48-minute game for the Jazz, scoring 25 points and dishing out 11 assists. Utah also saw contributions from Kyle Filipowski with 15 points and 17 rebounds, while Lauri Markkanen and Brice Sensabaugh each added 18 points, as the Jazz continue to struggle with losing 17 of their last 21 matches.
The Hawks were also buoyed by Cory Kispert, who scored 20 points, marking his highest score since arriving in the trade involving Trae Young. The Jazz, meanwhile, operated with a limited roster of just eight players as they await the arrival of newly acquired talents, including Jaren Jackson Jr. from the Grizzlies, and remained without Keyonte George, their leading scorer, nursing a left ankle sprain.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, the Jazz are set to face the Orlando Magic on Saturday night, while the Hawks will host the Charlotte Hornets the same evening.
