The Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls are two teams that have not shown much interest in slowing the pace. Atlanta continues to thrive in transition, while Chicago has leaned on its young core to push the tempo whenever possible. The result has been plenty of possessions, quick shots and high-scoring games. Defensive consistency has been an issue for both clubs, as each has struggled to protect the paint and contain opposing guards, leading to several shootouts through the opening weeks of the season.
The stakes are also a bit higher with this being an NBA Cup matchup, which should only add to the intensity from the opening tip. While both teams will be motivated to pick up an important group stage win, neither is likely to abandon its offensive identity. Atlanta has the firepower to score with anyone when the three-point shot is falling, and Chicago has proven it can keep pace in high-tempo games even when its defense struggles. With two teams that prefer to run, limited defensive resistance on either side, and plenty of offensive talent on the floor, this matchup has all the ingredients for another track meet.
Hawks vs Bulls prediction: Over 245.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable to that number.
