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- What: NBA Cup Game
- When: November 22, 2024
- Who: Atlanta Hawks vs. Chicago Bulls
- Time: 8:00 p.m. EST
- Where: United Center (Chicago, IL)
The upcoming matchup between the Atlanta Hawks and the Chicago Bulls is shaping up to be a critical game for both teams, especially in the context of the NBA Cup standings.
The Hawks are at the top of East Group C and looking to maintain their momentum, but the Bulls have a solid chance to cover the 2.5-point spread in this contest.
Let’s dive into the numbers and see why I’m rolling with Chicago to cover.
Before we examine our picks, be sure to check out the best NBA Basketball Betting Sites.
Game Preview (Hawks vs. Bulls)
First off, let’s talk about the Hawks. They’ve had a rough outing recently, particularly in their last game against the Golden State Warriors, where they shot a dismal 33% from the field and 26% from three-point range.
| Spread |  |  |  |
| Atlanta Hawks -2.5 Points | -105 | -105 | +100 |
| Chicago Bulls +2.5 Points | -115 | -115 | -120 |
Their offensive struggles were evident, finishing with an offensive rating of just 86.9. If the Hawks want to cover the spread, their four best players need to find their rhythm and get quality shots.
This means Trae Young, De’Andre Hunter, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and Onyeka Okongwu must step up and deliver.
However, the Hawks have been inconsistent, with a 6-10 record against the spread this season, and they’ve only managed to cover 4 out of 8 games on the road.
On the flip side, the Bulls have shown they can be competitive, especially at home. With a 7-9 record against the spread, they’ve been slightly better than the Hawks in this department.
The key for Chicago will be the performance of their trio: Zach LaVine, Coby White, and Nikola Vucevic. If they can find their shooting touch and establish a solid pace, the Bulls will be in a good position to win and cover the spread.
Art. @ZachLaVine pic.twitter.com/OPtfsQSV0e
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) November 21, 2024
Statistically, the Hawks are 4-6 against the spread when facing Eastern Conference teams, while the Bulls have a more favorable 6-3 record at home against the spread.
This trend suggests that the Bulls have been more effective in their home games, adding more confidence in their ability to cover the spread.
With their home-court advantage, a better record against the spread, and the potential for their key players to shine, I’m confident in Chicago’s ability to cover the 2.5-point spread against the Hawks.
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Total Points
The over is an appealing option in this matchup, as both Atlanta and Chicago possess high-scoring capabilities, while their defenses have faced challenges.
| Total Points | | | |
| Over 245.5 | -110 | -110 | -105 |
| Under 245.5 | -110 | -110 | -115 |
The Hawks have an impressive 11-5 record in hitting the over this season, while the Bulls are not far behind with a 9-7 mark.
Atlanta is playing at an average pace of 106.2 possessions per game, ranking third in the NBA, while Chicago follows closely with a pace of 106.4, placing them second.
With both teams playing at such a fast tempo and their defensive issues, this game is well-positioned for the total points to exceed the line.
Next up: We round out the road trip on Friday night in Chicago for our 3rd NBA Cup game.
Then we return home on Monday vs. the Mavs @StateFarmArena 🎟️ https://t.co/uV1IV8v564 pic.twitter.com/dQwJyVmJQ2
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) November 21, 2024
The Bulls and Hawks are also two of the highest-scoring teams in the NBA. They both are in the top-3 this season. The Bulls are second in the league at 115.4 points per game while, the Hawks are third at 114.9 points per game.
In the Bulls’ last six home games at the United Center after a road loss, the total points have exceeded the line. Similarly, in the Hawks’ last five games against teams playing the first part of a back-to-back schedule, the total points have also surpassed the line.
This total seems very high, but these two teams can score buckets in bunches and should exceed this number. Both teams ending the game in the 120s seems likely.
Over 245.5 points at -110 odds is the best bet in this one.
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