The Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers are set to meet in a high-stakes NBA Cup battle on Friday, promising another thrilling Eastern Conference showdown. Both teams are hungry to solidify their standing in East Group C, and with the Hawks sitting at 2-1 and the Cavaliers splitting their two pool games, every moment counts. Adding even more intrigue, this matchup comes on the heels of Atlanta’s remarkable comeback victory over Cleveland earlier this week.

But both teams are also navigating injuries to key players, making this game as much about depth and resilience as it is about star power. Here’s everything you need to know before the action tips off at 7:30 PM ET at State Farm Arena.

Are the Hawks gunning for a Trae Young return? Injury reports

Both squads enter the matchup with significant absentees. For the Blackhawks, Trae Young is listed as ‘probable’ with right Achilles tendinitis. So, it’s not a surprise that his availability would be a game-time decision. However, if Ice Trae does suit up, the franchise will no doubt hope their star guard can replicate his stunning 22-assist performance from Wednesday.

Talking about his spectacular numbers, Young broke it down in the most casual way possible. “My teammates made shots and I got them the ball in the spots that they like. They made the plays. That’s how you get assists. It’s teamwork,” he stated. Meanwhile, Cody Zeller remains unavailable because of personal reasons, and Seth Lundy is out with a lingering ankle injury, leaving the Hawks’ rotation slightly thinner. Now, let’s move to their opponents.

The Cavaliers aren’t faring any better. Their lengthy injury report has Dean Wade ruled ‘out’ due to an ankle injury. But the update about Caris LeVert has Cleveland breathing a sigh of relief. The 30-year-old had missed a couple of games previously because of knee inflammation. However, the fact that he has a ‘questionable’ tag is a sign that the veteran forward/guard is on track to return.

Additionally, Max Strus remains sidelined and is expected to be reevaluated next week. And second-year guard, Emoni Bates, continues his recovery from meniscus surgery. It’s a no-brainer that both teams will need their bench to step up to be victorious.

Depth charts for Atlanta and Cleveland

The Hawks’ depth has been one of its strengths this season, with young talents stepping into larger roles when needed. Trae Young (when healthy), anchors Atlanta’s starting lineup, with strong contributions from players like Jalen Johnson, Clint Capela, Kobe Bufkin, and De’Andre Hunter.

Moreover, Atlanta’s ability to mix veteran leadership with emerging talents has helped them pull off shocking wins. Just remember them upsetting reigning champs, Boston, earlier this month, and the Cavs previously. As such, let’s take a look at their depth chart.

The Cavaliers, on the other hand, boast a solid starting core of Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, and Evan Mobley. However, their bench depth has been tested with injuries. Players like Georges Niang and Ty Jerome will need to shoulder a much heavier load than they usually do. Particularly if Mitchell slides over to support the shooting guard spot in LeVert’s absence.

Heading into this matchup, the Hawks will have momentum and home-court advantage. But their opponents are out for blood. Looking to exact revenge after blowing a 19-point lead the last time. Atlanta’s ability to rally from deficits and Trae Young’s playmaking skills (if he plays), gives them an edge.

However, it’s not wise to underestimate the Cavs’ defense and star power. This NBA Cup clash promises to be a test of depth, strategy, and determination—elements that could shape the outcome for both teams in East Group C.