The Hawks got their point guard back just in time for the Play-In tournament, as Trae Young returned to action for the final three regular-season games.
And even though he’ll undoubtedly play big minutes in a win-or-go-home spot tonight, I’m fading Young on his combined points and rebounds (P+R) line.
The Bulls present a brutal matchup for the Oklahoma alum. When fully healthy, Young only managed 22 and 23 P+R against the Bulls (in 36 and 40 minutes, respectively).
In those games, Young shot a dreadful 9-of-31 from the field.
Alex Caruso, who notably only played in one of the matchups versus Young this season, should be enlisted as the primary defender on the Hawks' point guard. Caruso finished the regular season ranking in the 99th percentile of defensive estimated plus/minus, per Dunks and Threes.
The Bulls' team defense has been predicated on limiting scoring from pick-and-roll ball-handlers and pull-up shooting, ranking in the top eight against each play type.
Where the Bulls lack is against spot-up shooting. Playing primarily on the ball, Young only averaged two field goal attempts per game off catch-and-shoot opportunities. He’s poised to be more of a facilitator tonight to the likes of Bogdan Bogdanovic, DeAndre Hunter and even Dejounte Murray.
The Bulls also allowed the fifth-fewest rebounds per game to opposing point guards in the regular season. Young only averaged 2.8 boards per game, and I don’t see much upside on the glass for him in this one.
It’s a tough spot for Young, especially with limited reps coming off his prolonged injury absence.
I have the sixth-year pro projected at 24 points and rebounds tonight.
Pick: Trae Young Under 26.5 Points + Rebounds (-113 at FanDuel) | Play to 25.5 Points + Rebounds
