Jaylen Johnson: I still believe I'm the strongest of this rookie, and the future will prove it

Live Bar Dec. 16, 20th Pick Jaylen Johnson, the Hawks, was recently interviewed by The Athletic reporter Chris Kirschner and talked about a number of topics.

Q: I talked to you once during training camp, when I said you need to be patient and wait for things to turn around. But I also know that telling you that you need to be patient and that you are going through a long process are two different things, and the latter is harder for you. Is this waiting time tough for you?

A: It's not tough, and honestly, it's a lot of fun. I just need to let go of myself now and realize that before I start playing NBA games, I need to work out in the development league for a while and get better. That's where I am now.

Q: In real life, we will inevitably have a heart of comparison, specific to your situation, you see some rookies get a lot of playing time, that is what you want, in this case, how do you maintain your own mentality?

A: I just focus on self-development. But at the same time, some rookies get a lot of time and this thing gives me more motivation to keep working hard.

Q: The Hawks have been in rebuilding mode for the past few years, with a lot of rookies getting a lot of playing time from day 1 on the team, such as Trae Young, Redish, Hunter and even Huert, but now the situation is different, the team's goal is to win, and the youngsters have limited playing time and opportunities. Is the current situation challenging for you?

A: It's true that the team is different now, but for me, I'm just waiting for a turnaround, while constantly working hard, improving my strength, and being ready.

Q: Last question, you told me during the Las Vegas Summer League that you thought you were the best player in this rookie season, do you still see it that way? Do you think you'll prove it in the future?

A: Absolutely, there is no doubt about it. Now is to be patient, and everyone will see how I perform later. Now is to believe in the process that Rome was not built in a day. I will keep going with this motto and keep a good attitude. My opinion of myself is still the same as it was this summer.

So far this season, Jaylen Johnson has played in seven games, averaging 2.7 minutes per game and having 2 points and 0.7 rebounds.