Atlanta Hawks Game Preview: Jan. 25 Chicago Bulls

Jan 23, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks center Dwight Howard (8) celebrates a play with guard Dennis Schroder (17) in the third quarter of their game against the LA Clippers at Philips Arena. The Clippers won 115-105. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 23, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks center Dwight Howard (8) celebrates a play with guard Dennis Schroder (17) in the third quarter of their game against the LA Clippers at Philips Arena. The Clippers won 115-105. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 4, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer looks on against the Orlando Magic during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 4, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer looks on against the Orlando Magic during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Prediction

I’ve been rather optimistic with these predictions lately. It’s come back to bite me a few times, most notably after the losses to Detroit and the Clippers. My optimism remains on full blast today. I just can’t pick this Bulls team to win with all of their current issues. The Hawks are a terrible match-up for them in almost every spot on the floor.

Chicago doesn’t have anyone that can keep up with Dennis Schroder, he proved that last week. Taj Gibson can’t slow down Paul Millsap. The one advantage Chicago has is in the superstar department. Jimmy Butler is the best player on the floor when these two teams meet, but the Hawks have two good wing defenders to throw at him. Even if he still gets his buckets, he has to work for it.

Perhaps foolishly, I’m taking the Hawks to win this one. It won’t be quite the blowout it was in the first half of last week’s meeting, but it will be a comfortable win for Atlanta. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

Next: Dwight Howard's All-Star Case

Who: Atlanta Hawks (26-19) @ Chicago Bulls (23-23)

When: 8:00 PM EST, Wednesday, January 25th, 2017

Where: United Center 

How: Fox Sports Southeast 

Prediction: Hawks 105 Bulls 94