E.J.

Liddell

Liddell, who played for the Nuggets during this summer’s NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas, will have another opportunity to solidify his standing in the NBA. While the Nets did add five first-round picks and former Nugget Michael Porter Jr. (via trade) this offseason, the team’s rebuilding status may open the door for a two-way player like Liddell to earn minutes. At a minimum, the two-way deal gives the forward an opportunity to compete when training camp opens at the end of the month.

Having struggled with injuries throughout his professional career, Liddell is playing with the Nuggets in hopes of earning another opportunity. He played well on Thursday, as his dunk with just over five seconds remaining gave Denver a two-point lead. Unfortunately for Liddell, he ended up on the wrong end of the game’s final shot, with Jamaree Bouyea hitting a three over the forward’s outstretched hand as time expired. Liddell is not a fantasy target regardless of league size, but his goal is to grab a team’s attention and earn a contract.

The Bulls list no fewer than nine players on their injury report, so the team could be thin at a number of positions. If Smith and Phillips sit, Patrick Williams and E.J. Liddell could absorb additional minutes.

Liddell’s continued absence does not impact fantasy basketball, as he is not in the Bulls’ rotation when he is healthy.

Liddell’s absence does not impact fantasy basketball, as he is not guaranteed rotation minutes when he is healthy.

Smith missed Wednesday’s game against Orlando, but he’ll be back to filling out the backup center minutes behind Nikola Vucevic. E.J. Liddell logged 17 minutes against the Magic, but he will likely be pushed out of the rotation with Smith back.

Smith did not play in Wednesday’s loss to the Magic, leading to E.J. Liddell playing 17 minutes as Nikola Vucevic’s backup. Liddell isn’t a center, so the Bulls were at a decided disadvantage during his time on the court. Neither Smith nor Liddell offers much fantasy value backing up Vucevic.

Initially questionable for Wednesday’s game, Smith has officially been ruled out. With Adama Sanogo (knee) also out, the Bulls may turn to E.J. Liddell when starter Nikola Vucevic needs a break. Liddell will not be worth the risk as a streamer in this spot.

Smith has been productive as of late. He’s scored 12 or more points in two of his previous three contests. E.J. Liddell could get some limited run if Smith can’t play, as Adama Sanogo has been ruled out with a knee injury.

The Bulls signed Liddell to an Exhibit 10 contract in early September, and he played well enough during the preseason to earn a two-way contract. He’s unlikely to impact fantasy basketball this season, especially with Chicago having multiple young forwards on the roster.