NBA Rumors: ‘Optimism’ Jalen Johnson Will Land $30M AAV Contract with Hawks

Taylyn HadleyOctober 19, 2024

Eric Espada/NBAE via Getty Images

The NBA is approaching its 15-man roster deadline for the 2024-2025 season on Monday, and several teams have some big decisions to make and money to spend.

Atlanta Hawks small forward Jalen Johnson is approaching the deadline of his rookie contract extension and according to NBA insider Jake Fischer, there is “optimism around the NBA” that the Hawks and Johnson will find an agreement of at least a $30 million average annual salary prior to the deadline.

NBA TV @NBATVJalen Johnson was a PROBLEM in the 1st half 😳

21 Points
5 Rebounds
4 Assists pic.twitter.com/5hyFkgxRcR

Johnson is facing the same deadline as other NBA rising stars such as the Golden State Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, as well as the Chicago Bulls’ Josh Giddey.

“It’s going to be an interesting weekend,” one NBA Agent told Fischer on Friday night.

Johnson was chosen by the Hawks in the 2021 NBA Draft with the No. 20 overall pick. He has averaged 9.1 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game with Atlanta while shooting 51 percent from the field.

StatMuse @statmuseJalen Johnson this preseason:

16.7 PPG
7.3 RPG
2.0 SPG
2.3 3PM

on 69/88/100% shooting. pic.twitter.com/n8iGsCX36T

The Hawks and Johnson will open their season on Wednesday against the Brooklyn Nets at home.