United Center, Chicago, Illinois
Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET
TV/Streaming: Local networks and NBA Cup coverage (Prime Video/others as applicable)
This is an NBA Cup East Group stage matchup. The Hawks sit near the top of the East early while the Bulls own one of the league’s worst records and remain winless at home.
Recent Form
Hawks: 7-5 overall (4-2 on the road). They have been competitive with strong road results against Eastern Conference opponents. Offense averages around 118 PPG with solid assist numbers (~31-32 APG). Recent results include wins mixed with a loss to the Lakers.
Bulls: 1-9 overall (0-4 at home). They are in a deep early-season skid, allowing nearly 129 PPG. Recent performances include a close loss to the Spurs. Scoring sits around 113 PPG with defensive issues prominent.
Injury Reports
Hawks:
C Henri Veesaar (right ACL tear) — Out for season.
F Mouhamed Gueye (left foot fracture) — Out (into December).
F Asa Newell (left great toe hyperextension) — Out (reevaluation ~Nov. 20).
G Keshon Gilbert (left knee inflammation, non-surgical procedure) — Out (reevaluation ~Nov. 20).
G Kingston Flemings (lumbar spasm) — Questionable.
Bulls:
F Caleb Wilson (right metacarpal fracture) — Out (expected 4-6 weeks).
F Tobe Awaka (disc irritation/back) — Out.
G/F Norman Powell (low back spasms/shoulder issues in reports) — Questionable.
F Dailyn Swain (right disc irritation) — Questionable.
Current Rosters / Key Players
Hawks projected key contributors: Jalen Johnson (versatile forward, strong recent production vs. Bulls historically), Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Onyeka Okongwu, supporting guards/wings such as available depth (Dyson Daniels, CJ McCollum elements in some lineups, Aaron Wiggins, Luguentz Dort). The group emphasizes pace, assists, and two-way play.
Bulls projected key contributors: Josh Giddey (playmaking), Matas Buzelis, Jalen Smith, Tre Jones, Patrick Williams, Nic Claxton (when available), and role players filling gaps due to absences. The roster leans on young talent and secondary scoring.
Key Player vs. Player Matchups
Jalen Johnson vs. Bulls frontcourt/wings (Buzelis, Williams, Smith): Johnson’s scoring, rebounding, and playmaking against Chicago’s available size and versatility. He has a strong recent history vs. this opponent.
Josh Giddey vs. Hawks backcourt/guards: Giddey’s creation and vision against Atlanta’s perimeter defense and transition ability.
Onyeka Okongwu / Hawks bigs vs. Jalen Smith / Claxton: Interior scoring, rim protection, and rebounding battle.
Overall pace and three-point shooting: Hawks’ assist-heavy style vs. Bulls’ defensive vulnerabilities; turnovers and second-chance points could swing momentum.
Atlanta’s superior record and relative health edge (despite their own absences) favor controlling the tempo.
Series History
Hawks have performed well in recent head-to-heads, including strong individual showings from key players like Johnson. Chicago has occasional home success in the series historically, but current form heavily favors Atlanta. Prior season and early 2026-27 context shows competitive but often Hawks-leaning results.
Betting Trends
Bulls struggle ATS and at home early; Hawks solid on the road against weaker Eastern sides. High totals align with both teams’ scoring/defensive profiles. Public leans toward the favorite.
Atlanta’s better record, road success, and ability to exploit Chicago’s defensive and injury issues should lead to a comfortable NBA Cup win. The Bulls may hang around with home energy and young contributors, but sustained execution favors the Hawks pulling away in the second half.
Game Odds
Atlanta Hawks – 6.5
Chicago Bulls 244.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Thursday, November 12, 2026
