The Atlanta Hawks picked up a monumental victory on Friday evening, outlasting the Miami Heat by a 15-point margin despite myriad injury absences. That win was pivotal in a number of ways, and the Hawks are riding high as a result. Still, the sledding projects to be difficult on Sunday evening when Atlanta returns to action against the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Bucks improved to 37-22 with a win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday, and Milwaukee is a top-three team in the Eastern Conference. Though Atlanta has shown the ability to compete with anyone and everyone under Nate McMillan, the Hawks have been flummoxed by the Bucks in the recent past. Milwaukee has won 12 of the last 13 games against Atlanta, including the last six in a row and both tilts earlier this season.

Traditionally, Milwaukee is vulnerable to quality long-range shooting, and that is a staple of former Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer’s defensive approach. It is very difficult to score at the rim against the Bucks, however, and Milwaukee’s offense ranks in the top-five in overall efficiency.

Atlanta does have a rest advantage, though, and that could be key. The Bucks must travel after playing on Saturday, while the Hawks had a practice but did not have to exert maximum energy, nor did they have to travel after Friday’s win.

Injuries

The Hawks will be without Trae Young (right ankle sprain) for the second straight game, and he is joined on the inactive list by De’Andre Hunter (right knee soreness), Cam Reddish (right Achilles soreness) and Tony Snell (right ankle sprain) against Milwaukee. From there, Clint Capela (back contusion) is currently listed as questionable, and Kris Dunn (right ankle surgery) is doubtful.

Dunn has not appeared in a game since Jan. 29, 2020 with the Chicago Bulls. Though his “doubtful” designation makes him unlikely to play on Sunday, this is a notable distinction because he has been listed as “out” on every other injury report this season.

Due to Milwaukee’s situation on the back-to-back, they are not required to submit a formal injury report until Sunday. The Bucks noted no injuries for their game against Philadelphia on Saturday.

The Line

At this early hour, the point spread is unavailable, largely due to Milwaukee’s back-to-back. The Hawks will likely be underdogs without Young, though it would help if Capela was able to play.

Stay tuned throughout the day for all the latest.

Game Info

Game Date/Time: Sunday, Apr. 25, 7:30 pm ET

Location: State Farm Arena

TV: Bally Sports Southeast, NBA League Pass (out of market)

Radio: 92.9 The Game (Atlanta); Hawks Radio Network

Streaming: Fox Sports Go