NBA Highlights and Fantasy Insights: Bol Bol’s Comeback Performance
Bol Bol made a triumphant return to the starting lineup on Tuesday night, marking his first start in almost two years with an impressive display. Analysts Jay Croucher and Drew Dinsick dissect the current Western Conference champion odds, highlighting why the Oklahoma City Thunder could be a clever choice against the rest of the competition and why the Clippers also present an interesting wagering opportunity. Tuesday’s NBA schedule was brief, featuring only four games, acting as the calm before the basketball storm as all 30 NBA teams prepare to play on Wednesday, just before the All-Star break.
The New York Knicks dominated Indiana with a spectacular victory, thanks in part to the dynamic duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson, who combined for 70 points. With OG Anunoby sidelined, Precious Achiuwa (rostered in 16% of leagues) stepped up, scoring nine points alongside 12 rebounds, two assists, and a block. Available in 84% of fantasy leagues, Achiuwa might get another stint in the starting lineup if Anunoby remains out for Wednesday’s games.
Thomas Bryant, rostered by just 8%, shone with 18 points, nine rebounds, four assists, a block, and a three-pointer while replacing the absent Myles Turner. Turner’s absence on Wednesday means Bryant will likely continue as a starter, making both Achiuwa and Bryant valuable pickups for those needing support in the big man department.
In another match, Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley led the Raptors to victory over the 76ers amid Tyrese Maxey delivering one of his least productive games. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Paul George had unremarkable performances, but the 76ers might have found a promising addition to their starting lineup.
After halftime, Justin Edwards was substituted by Quentin Grimes (14% rostered), who completed the game with a solid 13 points (5-of-12 shooting), seven rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a three-pointer over 36 minutes. Grimes is a worthy add for Wednesday, possibly even longer through the season’s last stretch.
The Chicago Bulls had a night to forget at the United Center, managing only 29 points in the first half before losing to the Pistons by a staggering 40 points. Although the Bulls lacked highlights, Detroit’s Malik Beasley (40% rostered) shone brightly, hitting seven three-pointers in just 16 minutes to lead all scorers. Over his last three games, Beasley has sunk 21 threes with a whopping 43 attempts from deep in that period.
Currently second in the league behind Anthony Edwards for three-pointers made and attempted, Beasley has provided a much-needed offensive spark for the Pistons in his debut season with them. His seven triples on the night placed him in the history books, breaking the Pistons’ single-season record for made threes, previously held by Saddiq Bey’s 211 in 2021-22. With 28 games remaining, Beasley is on track to join the elite club of players like Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and James Harden, who have each made 300 threes in a single season.
Beasley is still available in 60% of fantasy leagues and is a smart add for points and three-point shooting needs. While he ranks just outside the top 120 in per-game fantasy value this season, he’s climbed into the top 65 over recent weeks.
In the night’s closing game, Bol Bol (15% rostered) returned to familiar territory with his first start in close to two years, nearly achieving a double-double by halftime. Placing second in scoring for his team, only behind Kevin Durant, Bol complemented his scoring with impressive defensive stats and led in rebounds, adding some valuable three-pointers for good measure.
This nostalgic performance put smiles on fantasy enthusiasts’ faces, as Bol Bol revived memories of his past glories. Coach Bud likely won’t overlook his stellar play, making him a probable starter on Wednesday in place of the still-absent Bradley Beal. Fantasy players should look to add him from the waiver wire and utilize his talents confidently in upcoming games.