Lonzo Ball is not expected to return for the Chicago Bulls against the Los Angeles Lakers but is remaining optimistic about being available for the season's end. After missing 12 games due to a sprained wrist, which he initially avoided needing surgery for, Ball's comeback has faced setbacks. Reaggravating the wrist injury in February, he aims to regain in-game conditioning before his return. Despite the lingering pain, he participated in practice, indicating his readiness to help the Bulls push for a playoff spot.

The Bulls stand in ninth place in the Eastern Conference, just ahead of the Miami Heat, as they gear up for a playoff push. With 10 games left, Ball aims to contribute to the team's offense and defense. Notably, Ball praised teammates Coby White and Josh Giddey for stepping up during his absence, showcasing the team's resilience during a challenging season.

Drafting in fantasy basketball can be a hit-or-miss experience, and this season has been no different. Joel Embiid's repeated injury woes culminated in only 19 games played, leading him to be a significant disappointment in the first round. LaMelo Ball failed to meet expectations as well, hindered by inefficiencies that left him ranking 55th in 9-cat leagues.

In the third round, Lauri Markkanen struggled to maintain his prior scoring and rebounding levels due to the dysfunction within the Jazz organization. Meanwhile, Immanuel Quickley, taken in the fourth round, couldn't contribute effectively as anticipated, and Brandon Ingram's unfortunate severe ankle sprain kept him sidelined for months. Jrue Holiday's decline continued into round six while Jusuf Nurkic plummeted in value after failing to secure a starting role. Terry Rozier and Alex Caruso were both major letdowns, and Marcus Smart's injury risks didn't help his new role in Washington.

The Indiana Pacers edged out the Brooklyn Nets, 108-103, extending their winning streak to four games. Tyrese Haliburton made a strong return after missing three games, achieving a double-double with 16 points and 12 assists. Myles Turner contributed significantly with 22 points, while Pascal Siakam led the scoring with 26. The Nets, despite trailing by 20 at one point, made a spirited comeback led by Trendon Watford, who scored 26 off the bench. The victory keeps the Pacers in a tight race for playoff positioning against the Milwaukee Bucks.

In another matchup, the Atlanta Hawks defeated the shorthanded Golden State Warriors 124-115. Trae Young shined with 25 points and 10 assists, while Onyeka Okongwu added a double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds. The Warriors, missing Stephen Curry due to injury, struggled despite notable performances from Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody. The Hawks maintained control throughout the game, showcasing a strong inside game and rebounding advantage.

The fantasy playoffs bring a unique mix of excitement and unpredictability, often characterized by load management and unexpected injuries. With some teams opting to tank and others prioritizing top players' rest days, strategic roster decisions become crucial. To maximize your chances of success, targeting players who can contribute significantly in specific areas is indispensable. Here are six players, currently under 50% rostered in Yahoo leagues, poised to make an impact.

Tre Jones has seized his opportunity as the starting point guard for the Chicago Bulls in the absence of Lonzo Ball, averaging impressive stats. Jaxson Hayes is solidifying his role with the Lakers, while Jose Alvarado stands to gain more responsibility with the Pelicans due to an injury to Trey Murphy. Players like DaQuan Jeffries, Jared Butler, and Tristan Vukcevic are also gaining traction, making them worthy of consideration.

LaVar Ball, the father of NBA stars Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo Ball, recently shared the harrowing details of his battle with diabetes that led to the amputation of his right foot. In an interview with Slam magazine, Ball revealed that complications from diabetes resulted in three surgeries, including the loss of toes and eventually his foot. He spent over a month in the hospital, undergoing multiple blood transfusions.

Despite the severe impact on his health and mental state, Ball remains resilient. He credits his sons for motivating him to recover and not to succumb to despair. He emphasizes that while he has lost his foot, his spirit and determination to continue his work with Big Baller Brand are intact. The family’s legacy in basketball continues, and LaVar is focused on the future, aiming to support his sons and their careers.