A Quiet Tuesday Leads to a Hectic Wednesday
Tuesday’s NBA slate was relatively calm, featuring just four games. It served as the calm before the storm, with all 30 teams set to play on Wednesday, just before the All-Star break. The night saw some standout performances and a few key injuries, making for a series of intriguing matchups and potential fantasy adds.
New York Flooring Indiana with Stellar Play
The New York Knicks dominated the Indiana Pacers, thanks to a combined 70 points from Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson. Towns, who has been a consistent force this season, was unstoppable, and Brunson added his usual steady play. With OG Anunoby out due to injury, Precious Achiuwa stepped up big-time, contributing nine points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and a block. Achiuwa, currently rostered in just 16% of fantasy leagues, is a valuable addition if you’re in need of a reliable big man. If Anunoby sits out Wednesday, Achiuwa is likely to start again, making him an even more attractive option.
Bryant and the Pacers’ Bright Spot
On the Pacers’ side, Thomas Bryant filled in for the injured Myles Turner, who is expected to miss another game. Bryant delivered a solid performance with 18 points, nine rebounds, four assists, a block, and a three-pointer. Bryant, currently owned in just 8% of fantasy leagues, is another player worth adding if you need a boost in the frontcourt. His versatility and solid stats in a starting role make him a strong candidate for a lineup upgrade.
Raptors Overcome 76ers with Barnes and Quickley
The Toronto Raptors managed to outperform the Philadelphia 76ers, thanks to strong contributions from Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley. Tyrese Maxey had one of his worst offensive nights, struggling to find his rhythm. Despite Kelly Oubre Jr. and Paul George’s lackluster performances, the 76ers may have found a new starting lineup member. Quentin Grimes, who replaced Justin Edwards, had a solid showing with 13 points, seven rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a three-pointer in 36 minutes. Grimes, currently rostered in just 14% of fantasy leagues, is a valuable pickup for Wednesday and potentially beyond.
Bulls vs. Pistons: A Match of Extremes
The United Center was the scene of an ugly night for the Chicago Bulls, who managed just 29 first-half points and ultimately fell to the Detroit Pistons by a 40-point margin. The Bulls had no bright spots, but the Pistons certainly did. Malik Beasley, currently owned in just 40% of fantasy leagues, was the star of the show, hitting seven three-pointers in just 16 minutes. Beasley has been on a tear, hitting 21 threes in his last three games while attempting a whopping 43 three-point shots in that span.
Beasley’s Historic Night
Beasley’s performance was not just a statistical anomaly; it was historic. He has now set the Pistons’ single-season record for made three-pointers, surpassing Saddiq Bey’s mark of 211 set in 2021-22. With 28 games still to play, Beasley is on pace to join the elite company of Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and James Harden as the only players to hit 300 three-pointers in a single season. Despite his value, Beasley is still available in 60% of fantasy leagues, making him a must-add for anyone in need of points and threes. He ranks just outside the top 120 in per-game fantasy value for the season but has been inside the top 65 over the last two weeks.
Bol Bol’s Return and Impact
The nightcap featured a familiar face making a significant impact: Bol Bol, currently owned in just 15% of fantasy leagues, drew his first start in nearly two years. Bol nearly posted a double-double in the first half alone and finished the game behind only Kevin Durant in scoring. He provided a monster performance with big defensive stats, a game-high rebound total, and some useful three-pointers. Bol’s return brought a wave of nostalgia and excitement, and it would be hard for Coach Bud to keep him out of the starting lineup on Wednesday, especially with Bradley Beal still sidelined. Bol is a strong addition to any fantasy team, and his performance on Tuesday night is a clear sign that he is back and ready to contribute.
