NBA Rumors: ‘Optimism’ Jalen Johnson Signs $30 Million AAV Contract With Hawks | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors

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

Atlanta Hawks small forward Jalen Johnson is nearing 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 are more likely to reach an agreement for at least an average annual salary of $ 30 million. to the deadline.

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

“It’s going to be an interesting weekend,” an NBA agent told Fischer on Friday evening.

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

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