Atlanta, GA – Jock Landale made an immediate and electrifying impact in his debut for the Atlanta Hawks, leading them to a thrilling 121-119 victory over the Utah Jazz on . Acquired just hours earlier in a whirlwind 24-hour period that saw him traded twice, Landale delivered a career-high performance, scoring 26 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, dishing out five assists, and blocking four shots.
The improbable sequence of events began with Landale being initially traded to the Utah Jazz as part of the deal for Jaren Jackson Jr. However, his time in Salt Lake City was fleeting. He was quickly flipped to Atlanta for cash considerations, a move that required a remarkable cross-country dash. Landale recounted the experience after the game, explaining he was literally preparing to fly to Utah when the call came. “I was actually sitting on a plane getting ready to go to Utah and I get the call saying, ‘Get off the damn plane’,” he said. Faced with the choice of flying in that morning or driving, Landale opted for a 630-kilometer drive from Memphis to Atlanta, prioritizing rest and acclimatization before his debut.
The Hawks were without Onyeka Okongwu, sidelined due to a dental fracture, creating an immediate opportunity for Landale in the starting lineup. Facing his former team only added to the narrative, turning his first game in an Atlanta uniform into a de facto “revenge game.” Landale seized the moment, tying his previous career-high point total and showcasing a well-rounded offensive game that included a career-best five three-pointers, one of which proved crucial late in the fourth quarter.
The game itself was a back-and-forth affair, ultimately decided by the Hawks’ ability to close strong. Landale’s performance wasn’t just about the raw numbers. it was about the confidence and energy he brought to the team. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, combined with his physicality inside, presented a unique challenge for the Jazz defense. The Hawks’ acquisition of Landale, initially as part of the Dejounte Murray trade from the San Antonio Spurs in , now appears to be paying dividends, even if the path to Atlanta was circuitous.
Landale’s journey to this point has been marked by perseverance. After signing with the Spurs following a bronze medal performance with the Australian national team at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, he initially struggled to find consistent playing time under Gregg Popovich. He found himself buried in the rotation behind Jakob Poeltl and Drew Eubanks, seeing limited action early in the season. However, when given the opportunity, Landale demonstrated flashes of potential, reaching double figures in scoring ten times, including a 26-point outburst against the Indiana Pacers on , where he shot an impressive 12-of-15 from the field.
Despite the inconsistency in minutes, Landale maintained a positive attitude, acknowledging the futility of dwelling on factors outside his control. He discussed this approach on Andrew Bogut’s Rogue Bogues podcast, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what he *could* control – his preparation and performance when given the chance.
The Hawks’ trade deadline activity didn’t end with the acquisition of Landale. They also traded Kristaps Porzingis to the Golden State Warriors, further reshaping their roster. The addition of Landale provides a different dimension to the Hawks’ frontcourt, offering a blend of size, skill, and toughness.
Boomers coach Scott Vickerman expressed his satisfaction with Landale’s move to Atlanta, recognizing the opportunity for the big man to contribute to a competitive team. The Hawks, currently navigating a challenging Eastern Conference landscape, will undoubtedly rely on Landale’s versatility and energy as they push for a playoff berth.
Landale’s debut performance wasn’t just a statistical anomaly; it was a statement. He demonstrated an ability to seamlessly integrate into a new team, embrace a starting role, and deliver under pressure. His story – a whirlwind trade, a cross-country drive, and a career night – is a testament to his resilience and professionalism. The Hawks are hoping this is just the beginning of a productive and impactful partnership with the Australian center.
Looking ahead, Landale and the Hawks will face a tough test as they continue their season. His ability to consistently replicate his debut performance will be crucial to the team’s success. The Hawks’ next game is against the Minnesota Timberwolves on , where Landale will look to build on his impressive start in Atlanta.
