NBA Action Heats Up Before the All-Star Break
Tuesday brought a quiet night to the NBA with just four games taking the spotlight. However, it’s just the prelude to a jam-packed Wednesday where all 30 teams hit the court before the All-Star break.
The New York Knicks cruised past the Indiana Pacers as Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson combined for an impressive 70 points. With OG Anunoby once again sidelined, Precious Achiuwa (16% rostered) stepped up, delivering a strong performance of nine points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and a block. Achiuwa remains a free agent in 84% of fantasy leagues and could see more starting minutes if Anunoby rests on Wednesday.
In opposition, Thomas Bryant (8%) posted a solid line of 18 points, nine rebounds, four assists, a block, and a three-pointer while filling in for Myles Turner. Expect another chance to see Bryant in the starting lineup on Wednesday as Turner remains out. Both Achiuwa and Bryant should be on your radar if you’re looking for big men for Wednesday’s matchups.
Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley led the Raptors to a win over the 76ers, shadowing Tyrese Maxey’s uncharacteristically poor offensive night. While Kelly Oubre Jr. and Paul George didn’t contribute much, the Sixers might have added a new face to their starting lineup.
After the break, Quentin Grimes (14%) took over for Justin Edwards and turned in a notable performance. In 36 minutes, he logged 13 points, seven rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a three-pointer. Snag Grimes for Wednesday, and consider holding onto him for the closing stretch of the season.
It was a rough night at the United Center, where the Bulls were demolished by 40 points against the Pistons, putting up only 29 points in the first half.
Chicago failed to shine, but Detroit had a standout player in Malik Beasley (40%). Beasley drained seven three-pointers in just 16 minutes, leading all scorers. Over his last three games, he’s nailed 21 triples amidst 43 attempts from deep.
Beasley trails only Anthony Edwards in the NBA for threes made and attempted, providing a crucial offensive boost for the Pistons in his debut season with them.
Beasley’s seven three-pointers set a new Pistons single-season record, surpassing Saddiq Bey’s 211 from the 2021-22 season. With 28 games remaining, he’s on track to join Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and James Harden in the club of 300 made triples in a season.
Still available in 60% of fantasy leagues, Beasley is a prime acquisition if you’re seeking scoring and three-point shooting. Though he’s just outside the top 120 in per-game fantasy value this season, he’s climbed into the top 65 over the past two weeks.
The final showdown of the evening saw Bol Bol (15%) make his first start in nearly two years, nearly achieving a double-double by halftime. Only Kevin Durant outscored him, and Bol delivered remarkable defensive stats along with a team-high in rebounds and valuable three-pointers.
His electrifying gameplay served as a reminder of his past fantasy prowess. With Bradley Beal still out, it’s hard to see Coach Bud keeping Bol out of the starting lineup on Wednesday. Ensure he’s off the waiver wire and ready to stream.