Trae Young Shines with 20 Assists and a Buzzer Beater
When it comes to delivering high-octane performances on the basketball court, Atlanta Hawks' point guard Trae Young continues to set the bar high. In a thrilling contest against the Utah Jazz, Young dished out an impressive 20 assists, notching this remarkable feat for the third time this season. But his contributions didn't end there. With the game on the line, Young sunk a heart-stopping 49-foot buzzer beater, sealing the game for the Hawks with a final score of 124-121.
A Game of Clutch Performers
Just before Young's sensational heroics, Utah's Collin Sexton kept fans on their feet by hitting a game-tying three-pointer with a mere 2.9 seconds remaining on the clock. In a moment that will be remembered by many, Young took a couple of dribbles before launching the game-winner from near half-court, in one of those basketball moments that seem more fiction than reality.
A Season of Assists
Young's playmaking prowess has been a defining aspect of his game this season. Aside from his game-defining shot, his consistent ability to facilitate plays is capturing everyone's attention. Young currently leads the league in assists, averaging well over 12 per game, and has reached double-digit assists in 15 games so far. His 934 assist points are over 150 more than those of the second-ranked Tyrese Haliburton, underscoring his role as one of the premier passers in the game.
Interestingly, only one other player, Elfrid Payton, has matched Young's 20-assist games this season, showcasing just how rare this achievement is.
Finding Balance in Shooting
While Young has dazzled with his assists, his shooting has been more of a mixed bag. Despite entering the game with a shooting percentage of 40% overall and 34% from beyond the arc, his performance against the Jazz was less stellar, as he went 2 for 9 from long range and shot 5 for 15 overall. It's worth noting that in games where he's reached the 20-assist mark, his shooting percentage averages 36%. With Young shooting 33% or worse from three-point range in 20 of his 25 games this season, it's clear there's room for improvement in his offensive efficiency.
Hawks Look to Build on Momentum
The victory over Utah brings the Hawks to a 19-18 record, as they look to build on this momentum moving forward. Young's leadership and playmaking continue to be at the forefront of their successes, making the case for the young star as one of the most dynamic and essential players in the league today. As the season progresses, the question remains: just how far can Young's exceptional performances carry the Hawks?