Chicago forward Torrey Craig had a rough collision with a baseline camera while chasing a rebound during the Bulls’ loss at Milwaukee on Wednesday.
With recent injuries opening a spot for Craig in the starting lineup, the Bulls hope his energetic play can positively influence the team. Chicago has lost eight of their last 11 games heading into Friday’s matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.
Starting in place of Patrick Williams, who is expected to miss at least a week due to left foot inflammation, Craig scored 15 points and grabbed six rebounds in the 122-106 loss to the Bucks, tying Nikola Vucevic for the team high in rebounds.
Craig missed Chicago’s game on November 9 in Atlanta due to illness. The Bulls won that game 125-113, led by Ayo Dosunmu’s 19 points and Vucevic’s 18-point, 12-rebound double-double. Coby White and Zach LaVine each added 18 points.
Bulls coach Billy Donovan praised LaVine for his performance against the Bucks, saying LaVine “carried us.” LaVine scored 20 of his 27 points before halftime and finished 9-of-15 from the field, including 4-of-7 from three-point range.
Atlanta is looking to split a four-game road trip that has included losses at Portland and Golden State, with a one-point win in Sacramento in between.
The Hawks lost 120-97 at Golden State on Wednesday, scoring just four points more than their season low.
Atlanta had its full rotation available against the Warriors. Jalen Johnson, who missed the Sacramento game due to left leg inflammation, posted a double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds, leading six Hawks in double-figure scoring. Trae Young (12 points, 11 assists) and Clint Capela (11 points, 10 rebounds) also contributed double-doubles.
Friday marks the resumption of NBA Cup play. Atlanta aims for a 3-0 start in East Group C after previous victories over Boston and Washington. The Bulls lost their only group play contest so far, against Cleveland.
Group play will continue on Tuesdays and Fridays through December 3 to determine an elimination bracket later in the month. The winner of each group, along with one wild card from each conference, will advance to the knockout rounds.
Chicago has won six of their last 10 games against Atlanta. LaVine has been outstanding in his past 10 games against the Hawks, shooting 53.6 percent and averaging 25.4 points.
