The Phoenix Suns have had a terrible season thus far as they are currently fighting for their playoff lives.
Of course, the Suns were expected to challenge near the top of the Western Conference standings this season thanks to their big three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Instead, they currently find themselves sitting 11th in the West standings with a 26-28 record at the All-Star break.
Phoenix’s depth has been an issue this season and Beal has had a terrible season for his standards. That forced head coach Mike Budenholzer to move him out of the starting lineup and the Suns even tried to trade him ahead of the trade deadline, but to no avail.
The Suns’ frontcourt depth has also been a major issue this season. Jusuf Nurkic was their starting center at the beginning of the season, but he eventually found himself out of the rotation and was sent to the Charlotte Hornets at the deadline. Phoenix did land Nick Richards from Charlotte, and he has played well as their new starting center.
Behind Richards though, the Suns have struggled to find their next best frontcourt option. Mason Plumlee has struggled this season, but they have recently found success in playing Bol Bol, who was recently praised by Booker for his recent play.
“He has everything that you can’t teach,” Booker said about Bol. “He has all the intangibles. He’s one of one. He’s a player that we haven’t seen before, so you never know what you’re gonna get from him out there, and he does a little bit of everything.”
Of course, Bol has rode the bench for the Suns for much of the season, but he has seen a ton of playing time with their recent injuries. Since Feb. 5, Bol is averaging 13.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game while shooting 44.4% from the field and 29.4% from three in 25.9 minutes per game.
The 7-3 center has finally had a chance to shine, and he has taken full advantage of it over the past few weeks, and he might have just proven to be the missing piece the Suns need in their frontcourt.
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