The Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks are set to collide in a crucial NBA Cup Group C showdown, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. For the Hawks, it’s a chance to go 3-0 in group play and tighten their grip on the top spot. Meanwhile, the Bulls, sitting at 0-1 in NBA Cup action, are eager to bounce back and defend their home court at the United Center. This matchup promises drama, intensity, and plenty of action. Let’s break down everything you need to know.

Injury Reports

Injuries could significantly shape the outcome of this game. For the Hawks, no injuries have been reported for the upcoming matchup. Cody Zeller and Seth Lundy remain sidelined, from their previous games. Atlanta’s starting lineup features dynamic playmakers like Trae Young and Clint Capela, along with Jalen Johnson, who recently notched a double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds against Sacramento.

On the other hand, the Bulls face a long list of absences, with Adama Sanogo sidelined due to knee issues. Lonzo Ball (wrist) and Patrick Williams (foot) are out from their injuries from previous games. Day-to-day statuses for Torrey Craig, Coby White, and E.J. Liddell add to the uncertainty. With Zach LaVine in fine form after a 27-point outing against Milwaukee, Chicago will rely on their star duo of LaVine and Nikola Vucevic.

Depth charts

Atlanta Hawks

Chicago Bulls 

The depth charts reveal where each team might have an edge. While Atlanta’s rotations are stable, Chicago’s bench players, like Julian Philips and Ayo Dosunmu, will need to step up to counter the Hawks’ offensive firepower.

Can Atlanta Capitalize on Chicago’s Defensive Struggles?

Atlanta has shown flashes of brilliance in NBA Cup play, securing victories over Boston and Washington. Their ability to rally behind strong performances, like Johnson’s standout moments and Trae Young’s leadership, has kept them competitive. However, inconsistency is a recurring issue. Their last outing against Golden State exposed their weaknesses, particularly from deep.

The Hawks shot 26.7% from beyond the arc and committed 11 first-half turnovers, a recipe for disaster against stronger opponents. They’ll need more efficient shooting and better perimeter defense, as they currently allow the highest opponent three-point percentage in the league (39.4%). Can they tighten up in time to stifle LaVine and Chicago’s shooters?

For Chicago, the question isn’t talent—it’s execution. After starting the season with promise, the Bulls have cooled off, losing 10 of their last 13 games. Their recent 122-106 defeat to Milwaukee highlighted their defensive woes, with the Bucks pouring in 69 first-half points. Torrey Craig, stepping in for the injured Patrick Williams, has brought energy, grabbing six rebounds and scoring 15 points against Milwaukee.

But the Bulls need more than grit—they need consistency. LaVine’s scoring prowess will be crucial, especially against a Hawks defense that struggles against sharpshooters. Chicago also holds a 4-1 record in their last five matchups with Atlanta. Can they maintain that edge and pull off a much-needed win?

This game boils down to execution under pressure. Can Atlanta’s Trae Young and Clint Capela exploit Chicago’s defensive lapses? Will LaVine’s hot shooting and Vucevic’s inside presence tip the scales for the Bulls? Both teams have something to prove, and with NBA Cup standings on the line, every possession will matter.