The Atlanta Hawks are in a familiar situation as they head into tomorrow’s play-in tournament game against the Chicago Bulls. Despite reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, the Hawks are in the play-in for the third consecutive year.
They have a flawless 3-0 record in previous play-in games but have failed to win in the first round of the playoffs following those victories. This year, they must win two play-in games to face the Boston Celtics in the first playoff round.
Their first challenge is the Chicago Bulls, against whom the Hawks have a 1-2 record this season, although they won the most recent game in Chicago. Atlanta will be without Jalen Johnson, Onyeka Okongwu, and Saddiq Bey, requiring other players to step up.
Should the Hawks advance past the Bulls, they would face either the Miami Heat or the Philadelphia 76ers. The 76ers, rejuvenated by Joel Embiid’s return, present a tough challenge with their strong lineup including Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Tobias Harris, especially as the game would be in Philadelphia.
Conversely, the Miami Heat, while not an easy opponent, might be a preferable matchup for Atlanta. The Heat are currently dealing with injuries to key players like Terry Rozier, Duncan Robinson, and Kevin Love, which could weaken them if these players are unavailable for their next game. Miami’s reliance on Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro might offer Atlanta strategic opportunities, especially in exploiting defensive weaknesses in pick-and-roll situations.
Recalling last year’s play-in, where a healthier Hawks team defeated Miami—who eventually reached the NBA Finals—Atlanta may see a slightly easier path against the Heat than against a full-strength 76ers.
For now, the Hawks’ immediate focus is on overcoming the Bulls, a team they’ve struggled against, before setting sights on their potential next opponents.
