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Lexie Hull continued to start for the Indiana Fever after replacing DeWanna Bonner in the lineup three games into the season after the veteran forward's struggles. It appears as if Hull might be her direct and permanent replacement for the rest of the season in the frontcourt after reports emerged that Bonner is looking to depart the Fever before Tuesday's contest against the Seattle Storm.
Hull had one of her best outings, especially in the second half. It helped the Fever avoid a three-game losing streak, as they won 94-86 and improved to 7-7 on the season.
Lexie Hull Stats Tonight and Game Recap vs. Storm
Hull began the game against the Storm as one of the Fever's most impactful players. Despite not scoring in the first quarter, she had the best +/- at +10. Hull had two rebounds. She missed her only shot attempt from 3. The Fever led 27-24.
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Hull remained scoreless in the second quarter but was still the most impactful player, improving her +/- to +12. She missed her second shot of the night while adding one more rebound. Hull was primarily tasked with doing most of the work defensively, and it paid off for Indiana as it took a 45-39 lead into halftime. Hull entered the break scoreless, going 0-for-2, with two rebounds and one foul.
Lexie Hull caught fire in the second half, especially in the third quarter. She scored 10 of her 14 points in that period while staying efficient defensively. Hull's scoring burst was one of the key reasons why Indiana could fend off the Storm's runs, which looked threatening.
Hull had five points in the final frame. In the meantime, she also racked up nine rebounds through the final two quarters, showing her impact on the box score, too. Hull finished the game with 15 points, 11 rebounds and two steals, shooting 6 of 10, including 2 of 4 from 3. She was a team-high +/- +12 in an eight-point win.
Lexie Hull's emergence keeps Fever in safe spot without DeWanna Bonner
Lexie Hull might have just assured the Fever they are fine without DeWanna Bonner amid the veteran's reported wish to leave the team. Hull's performance on Tuesday was exceptional, to say the least. She carried out the exact role the Fever expected Bonner to play when they signed her this past offseason.
Hull, being younger and more accepting of her role-player status, is also key to making things work with this core. That may not have been the case with Bonner, who, as it stands, could be on her way out.
