Jalen Johnson's step to superstardom: Does the Hawks MIP frontrunner have what it takes to make the leap?

Jalen Johnson continues to elevate his game, which comes after relatively low expectations last season following a quiet first two years in the NBA. In his first campaign as a starter in the league, Johnson showed flashes of his potential, averaging 16.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.3 steals per game.

Johnson's rise to stardom is being reflected in the awards race, as the fourth-year forward is among the top of the Most Improved Player odds rankings. He has played a large role in Atlanta's four-game win streak and is averaging career-highs in points, assists, rebounds, steals and blocks per game.

While impressive, Johnson isn't regarded as a superstar in the NBA just yet. That doesn't mean he won't get there, though. Let's analyze whether Johnson can take the next step to superstardom.

Does Jalen Johnson have what it takes to develop into a superstar?

In one word: maybe. On the one hand, he looks to have what it takes, but the biggest differentiator between stars and superstars is consistency. As of right now, there isn't a large enough sample size to say Jalen Johnson will develop into a superstar, but his numbers are very promising.

In 31 games, Johnson is averaging 19.9 ppg, 10.2 rpg, 5.4 apg, 1.5 spg and 1.1 bpg. Those numbers aren't league-best by any means, but this hypothetical is all about development. To put his averages into perspective, Johnson is just one of two players in the NBA this season to average 19 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block per game, along with Houston's Alperen Sengun.

Johnson has taken a step every year he's been in the league and continues to progress with every passing game.

Jalen Johnson has all the makings of a superstar as a 6-foot-9 wing with a capable 3-point jump shot, efficient shot-making ability and immense potential as a playmaker, which he's tapping into this season. He displays strong play on the defensive end of the floor and can guard all five positions.

It's ultimately too early to tell if Johnson will develop into a superstar-caliber player, but the development he's displayed is at least star-level. If Johnson turned in a similar jump in numbers next season, he would be knocking at the door of NBA superstardom.