In the NBA, talent doesn’t always lead to production. We’ve seen plenty of good players fail to make their mark in this league.
Could Bol Bol be the next one? He’s an intriguing player. In some ways, Bol Bol’s combination of height and guard skills make him the prototypical modern basketball player. Yet, the Orlando Magic just waived him.
What’s the issue here? Is Bol committed to basketball? Does he lack passion? Or, does he struggle with NBA physicality due to his slight frame?
Either way, someone ought to take a flyer on Bol Bol. The skill set is too apparent. If he isn’t on an NBA team next year, that will be a shame. Here are three teams we think should take a look at him.
Houston Rockets
Given the summer that the Rockets have had, this may feel counterproductive. Aren’t the Rockets trying to take a step forward? This team just signed Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks, and Jock Landale. It may be difficult to find minutes in the rotation for Cam Whitmore. How are they going to make room for Bol Bol?
They aren’t. That’s fine. This would be a flyer. He would be an end-of-the-bench guy for this team until he proved himself deserving of more in practice.
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In fact, that’s probably the best situation he is likely to find. He was just cut by the Orlando Magic. Nobody is giving him heavy minutes unless he proves himself. Could another young Western Conference team give him a chance?
Oklahoma City Thunder
In some respects, Bol Bol is exactly the Thunder’s type. This team loves long players with guard skills. He fits the criteria. His ability to handle the ball and shoot off of the dribble is unique for his size.
On the other hand, he isn’t a very mindful defender. He’s not especially apt at making plays for his teammates. Is this really a good match?
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It doesn’t matter. Again – he is riding the pine. If he gets another serious opportunity in the NBA, it’ll be because he forced his way onto the floor. Should this next team give him a chance to do the same?
Toronto Raptors
Meanwhile, it’s hard to anticipate Toronto’s next move. What will this team do next? Once again – Fred VanVleet is gone. He’s a Houston Rocket. If the Raptors wanted to keep their core together, it’s already too late.
Are they going to rebuild? Or, will they see if a coaching change can offset the loss of VanVleet? We don’t know. Taking a flyer on Bol Bol makes sense either way. If they don’t intend on making any major moves, they can stash him at the end of the bench.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder & Toronto Raptors Updates
Alternatively, if they do trade Pascal Siakam, they may have a better opportunity for him than anyone else in the NBA. If he doesn’t capitalize on it, it may be his last one in the league.
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