Celtics Face Shorthanded Hawks in NBA Cup Opener

Atlanta Hawks struggle with injuries as they prepare to meet reigning champions Boston Celtics in the NBA Cup group stage.

The Boston Celtics begin their NBA Cup campaign against the Atlanta Hawks, who are dealing with significant player absences.
Star guard Trae Young is out for the Hawks due to right Achilles tendinitis, marking his first missed game of the season.
Atlanta's roster is further weakened with the absence of key players like Bogdan Bogdanovic, Kobe Bufkin, and De’Andre Hunter.
Celtics' Jayson Tatum and Al Horford are listed as questionable, adding uncertainty to Boston's lineup.
The Celtics have a strong start to the season with a 9-2 record, while the Hawks have struggled, losing seven of their last nine games.