The Atlanta Hawks are preparing to host the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night at State Farm Arena in Georgia, coming off a dominant 126-96 home victory over the Washington Wizards. However, the team announced that All-Star forward Jalen Johnson, who missed the previous game due to a left hip flexor irritation and had only logged six minutes in the game prior, will be listed as questionable for the upcoming matchup.
According to Brad Rowland of Locked On Hawks,
“Hawks injury report for Sunday against Portland…. Nickeil Alexander-Walker (left foot sprain) is questionable. Jalen Johnson (left hip flexor irritation) is questionable.”
Jalen Johnson’s Impact on the Hawks This Season
Jalen Johnson is having an exceptional season for Atlanta in his fifth NBA year, all spent with the Hawks after starring at Duke. Over 54 games, he is averaging 23.0 points, 10.6 rebounds, 7.9 assists, and 1.3 steals per contest, while shooting an efficient 49.4% from the field and 34.3% from beyond the arc. His consistent production has made him a key player for the team.
The Lead highlighted Johnson’s recent performance:
“Jalen Johnson over his last 7 games: – 25.6 PPG – 13.1 RPG – 8.1 APG – 5-2 record He’s the first player since Oscar Robertson (1963) to average 25/13/8 over a 7+ game span before age 25 🤯”
Johnson has also made franchise history by recording three consecutive triple-doubles, a first for the Hawks, with five total triple-doubles on the season. NBA.com/Stats noted,
“Jalen Johnson tonight: 19 PTS | 11 REB | 12 AST He now has three straight triple-doubles, the longest streak in Hawks franchise history… And five on the season, the most in Hawks franchise history 🔥”
Current Standings and Team Momentum
As of Sunday, the Hawks hold the 10th seed in the Eastern Conference with a 30-31 record across 61 games. They are riding a three-game winning streak and have secured victories in six of their last ten outings. Following their game against Portland, Atlanta is set to face the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday night in Wisconsin.
Head coach Quin Snyder has been guiding the team through this competitive stretch, focusing on maintaining their position in the playoff hunt. Last season, Johnson and the Hawks were eliminated in the play-in tournament, falling to both the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat, underscoring the importance of this year’s run.
Previewing the Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers, who will be visiting State Farm Arena, currently sit as the ninth seed in the Western Conference with a 29-32 record after 61 games. They have won six of their last ten matchups and are led by head coach Tiago Splitter. The Trail Blazers will look to capitalize on their recent form to maintain or improve their playoff positioning.
Outlook for Sunday’s Matchup and Beyond
The availability of Jalen Johnson remains a major factor for the Hawks as they prepare to face Portland. His injury status could influence the team’s offensive and defensive performance significantly. A healthy Johnson would bolster Atlanta’s attempts to climb the Eastern Conference standings and extend their winning momentum.
Both teams are navigating critical points in their seasons with close seeding positions in their respective conferences, making this game especially important for playoff aspirations. Following the game against the Trail Blazers, Atlanta’s travel to Milwaukee will present another challenging test, signaling a pivotal stretch for the Hawks.
Hawks injury report for Sunday against Portland….
Nickeil Alexander-Walker (left foot sprain) is questionable.
Jalen Johnson (left hip flexor irritation) is questionable.
— Brad Rowland (@BTRowland) February 28, 2026
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