Predictions
Atlanta has a stacked frontcourt that will give the Bulls fits all night if healthy and focused. Howard is going to be hunting rebounds, a thing that Chicago also likes to do, and it’ll make for some interesting matchups near the rim because Butler will probably have to chase Millsap out to the arc more than he would like to.
The backcourt doesn’t let up. Both Bazemore and Schroeder had huge games against Cleveland on Tuesday night and don’t face stiff resistance from the starting pairing of Rondo and Wade. Wade in particular is going to be suspect because he likely has already focused himself on taking it to the Heat the following night.
What gives the Bulls a slight advantage, or maybe just levels the playing field, also hinders them from committing everything. The Hawks should be on tired legs as they participate in their SEGABABA while the Bulls might not be willing to fully chase the win knowing that they have their own SEGABAB in Miami the following night. If they want to win for Wade, they’ll surely have that on their minds.
Basically, I’m saying that this is a trap game for the Bulls. If they move the ball, get out in transition, shoot from the perimeter when it opens, they have a strong chance to take advantage of an Atlanta team still basking in their triumph over the Cavs. However, if they can’t do this and the Hawks get their legs under them, this could be the start of a long stretch of hard road tests that Chicago will face in November.
Player of the Game: Jimmy Butler
Score: 107-98
Winner: Atlanta Hawks
The Bulls are going up against a team that has a top 10 ranked defense, pace and offense. It’s going to be tough ask for them to go on the road and steal one from one of the better teams in the East. What do you have for the score and who is your player of the game? Let us know in the comments.