The Phoenix Suns are in trouble. Following a disheartening loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second game of their first-round series, the Suns face an uphill battle to stage a remarkable comeback. For the second postseason in a row, Kevin Durant & Co. are on the verge of exiting the playoffs prematurely. However, could a former phenom rise from the ashes and save Phoenix’s title dreams?

Fans of the Phoenix Suns have been urging HC Frank Vogel to give more game time to Bol Bol. Despite this, the 7’3” forward has received little to no playing time in the playoffs. Even former Warrior and 3x NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas have urged Vogel to give more game time to Bol Bol. During the latest episode of the Gil’s Arena, Agent Zero said, “Right now, with the talent that’s on the floor. And you look at this bench. There’s only one guy who can actually change the outcome of this series. And that is Bol Bol. Because his skill level is unmatched.” With their backs against the wall, Vogel may finally decide to allow Bol Bol to play alongside Kevin Durant and other Suns’ stars in Game 3 of the series.

Kevin Durant would hope to see Bol Bol’s immense potential come true. But in the first two games of the series against the Timberwolves, Frank Vogel has only handed Bol Bol 6 minutes of playing time. And this lack of playing time has perplexed many fans and analysts, considering the undeniable natural talent and skill set that he possesses. Bol Bol’s size and talent level have even earned him comparisons with rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama. So, who held Bol Bol back from reaching the elite level, despite having such extraordinary talent?

The mysterious case of Bol Bol

Back in 2019, there were few players (Kevin Durant included) who could rival the hype and attention that Bol Bol garnered. He was a consensus top-3 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. However, due to injury concerns, Bol Bol dropped down to the 44th pick, where the Miami Heat selected him. The Heat then traded Bol Bol to the Nuggets. However, he never managed to establish himself as a starter in Denver. After all, Nikola Jokić played in the same position.

Following a disappointing stint with the Nuggets, the Orlando Magic decided to take a punt on Bol Bol. And surprisingly, Orlando’s punt bore fruit, as he became a key part of their roster. During the 2022–23 season, he played 70 games and averaged 9.1 points and 5.8 rebounds. However, cracks within his game soon began to show. His traffic cone-like defensive presence, coupled with unreliable shooting and form, made him a liability on the court. The Magic released Bol Bol due to his inconsistent performances and lack of a fit with franchise cornerstone Paolo Banchero.

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Despite the obvious weaknesses in his game, some teams and former players still believe that Bol Bol is a diamond in the rough. Even current Suns’ teammate Kevin Durant was surprised by his talent and work ethic. During a recent interview, Kevin Durant said, “He’s been more than I expected. His intangibles, his work ethic, his IQ — all the stuff that I didn’t really think about when it comes to Bol, that’s the foundation of his game.” Bol Bol’s chance with the Suns could possibly be his last opportunity in the NBA. So will he grab this opportunity with both hands and lead an unlikely Suns’ comeback?