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A big test for the Bulls tonight at the United Center as the 5-0 Hawks led by all star Joe Johnson meet the Bulls who are coming off a Saturday home loss to the Cavaliers.

Here’s my audio preview of tonight’s game:

Johnson is averaging 25 points, 5 boards and 3 assists.

Mike Bibby has been solid shooting the three ball, but the Hawks will have to  find a way to sustain their early season success after Josh Smith suffered an ankle injury Friday against the Raptors and is out 2-4 weeks.

But it’s defense that is winning games for the Hawks. Opponents are averaging only 85 points–second fewest in the league. Opponents are shooting only 40% against Atlanta–3rd lowest in the NBA. The Hawks are 5th in the NBA in rebounding at 44 per game. 

When in doubt, put the Hawks at the line. How about 67%, last in the NBA.

The Bulls come in at 3-4 overall and 3-1 at home. The Hawks are 3-0 on the road .

Ben Gordon is averaging 28 points the past three games.

Based on comments in today’s papers it appears Larry Hughes (shoulder) will sit this one out. Drew Gooden (ankle) is questionable.

Saw a lot of the Raps-Celtics game.  It was playoff intensity down the stretch.  Paul Pierce was on fire in the 4th. Message to the Raps–get the ball to Bosh.

T.J. Ford was sensational in the Pacers win over Durant  (37 points)and the Thunder.
Not diggin OKC’s uniforms.

Is D-Wade off to a vintage Wade start? Good news for the Heat. 33 for the Miami superstar in their win over NJ. Yi with a double-double of 24 and 10–impressive.

Brandon Roy got in the way of Orlando going 5-0 on its home stand. Dwight Howard was a monster, but Roy was outstanding.

O J Mayo is filling up the stat sheet–33 last night but the Grizz lost to Phoenix.

Antonio McDyess was waived by the Nuggets… now what?

NY Post reports Chris Kaman could be on the block. If that’s true look for a host of teams lining up for his services.

Al Harrington wants out and has been pretty vocal about it.  GST wants to deal him.
Now word out of Oakland has Harrington missing the next two weeks with a back injury.  Hmmmm…..

Bulls-Hawks tonight  at 7 p.m. for pregame on the Bulls Radio Network. Bill Wennington and I will bring you the play-by-play.

Watch Neil Funk, Stacey King and Johnny Kerr on TV on Comcast SportsNet.

Always a pleasure!