After struggling with consistency in the playoffs, Jeff Teague finally put together a solid stat line in a Round 2 Game 4 win against the Washington Wizards Monday night. He finished with 26 points (9/20), 8 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block, and just 1 turnover. However, it was his energy that spoke louder than his numbers.

“Aggressive” was the buzzword before, during, and after the game. Coach Mike Budenholzer surely stressed it to his his starting point guard after a lethargic start to the series. In the first three games, excluding the second half of game 3, Teague was a statue on both ends of the floor. He wasn’t cutting, driving, or slashing with the same speed and focus Hawks fans are accustomed to. He wasn’t closing out shooters or contesting shots like he normally does.

This changed Monday night. Here are some clips of Teague using his speed to create easy baskets, second chances, shots for teammates and draw fouls: (sorry in advance for the poor quality, I’m learning!)

A look through Teague’s stats from the 2015 playoffs offers no discernible difference between wins and losses. Some wins he shoots well, some poorly; some losses well, some losses poorly. It goes the same way with his other stats. It’s a conundrum that truly leaves the verdict up to the viewer’s eyes.

Oftentimes you’ll hear broadcasters and analysts refer to a point guard as the head of the snake. If a PG establishes high energy early on, others will follow. When Teague is visibly attacking defenses, good things happen. Journeyman back-up PG Ramon Sessions loses him, defenders collapse, and most importantly – his teammates move. If the Hawks hope to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals, he’ll have to stay aggressive. John Wall’s hand is shattered and though the Wizards keep declaring him a game time decision, this match up is all in Teague’s favor. He’s not alone – other players will have to stay aggressive with their movement and cuts, too. It doesn’t end with the sixth year starter, but it certainly starts with him.

The series (2-2) resumes Wednesday for game 5 in Atlanta, 8:00 PM.