The Atlanta Hawks faced a challenging matchup against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday, ultimately succumbing to a 125-113 defeat. Despite leading by as many as 18 points in the first half and maintaining an eight-point advantage entering the fourth quarter, the Hawks ran out of steam, allowing the Bulls to dominate the final period with a 35-15 run. This loss dropped the Hawks to a 4-7 record for the season, and punctuated a tough weekend that also included a loss in Detroit
Fatigue and Scheduling Woes
The Hawks’ grueling schedule played a significant role in their performance. Playing their fifth game in seven days, including a back-to-back with travel, the team was visibly exhausted. This demanding stretch is one of the toughest in the NBA, and it showed in the Hawks’ inability to maintain their energy levels throughout the game. Head coach Quin Snyder acknowledged the fatigue, noting that the team was “gassed” in the fourth quarter. The Hawks’ schedule, combined with injuries to key players like De’Andre Hunter and Bogdan Bogdanović, left them shorthanded and struggling to keep up with the Bulls’ pace.
Offensive Struggles and Defensive Breakdowns
Offensively, the Hawks struggled with a 107 offensive rating, shooting just 31% from beyond the arc and missing eight free throws. Despite winning several statistical categories, such as free throw attempts and points in the paint, their shooting woes and fatigue were evident. The Hawks’ shot profile was solid, with a focus on high-value rim attempts and three-pointers, but their execution faltered, particularly in the fourth quarter where they posted a dismal 54 offensive rating.
Defensively, the Hawks allowed the Bulls to shoot 62% on two-point attempts, with Chicago excelling from mid-range. The Bulls also capitalized on the Hawks’ tired legs, pushing the pace and scoring 23 fast-break points. The Hawks’ defensive glass was another area of concern, especially when Clint Capela was off the court, as they struggled to secure rebounds and prevent second-chance opportunities.
Despite these challenges, the Hawks showed promise in the first three quarters, demonstrating their potential when fully energized and healthy. However, the fourth quarter collapse highlighted the impact of fatigue and the need for depth, particularly in the absence of key players.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Hawks’ performance and future prospects, tune into the Locked On Hawks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Hawks Podcast:
- De’Andre Hunter’s injury update and potential return
- Analysis of the Hawks’ upcoming schedule and challenges
- Player-by-player evaluations and performance breakdowns
- Discussion on the Hawks’ roster depth and potential moves
