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The Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers are set to meet for the second time this season on Wednesday night, and this time the matchup will take place in the Staples Center. The Lakers edged the Suns out by eight points in the last meeting between this two teams, but Phoenix has made one critical addition to its frontcourt since then. We break down how roster changes and injuries could affect the best lineup strategy for this Lakers-Suns Showdown matchup in Wednesday’s four-game NBA slate.
Captain’s Picks
LeBron James ($18,600) has notched at least a double-double in four consecutive contests and remains the Lakers’ DKFP leader. James’ scoring isn’t far behind Anthony Davis’ and his role as the primary initiator of Los Angeles’ offense makes him the logical play here. Davis is listed as questionable for this contest because of lingering shoulder soreness, which gives you even more of a reason to go with James. He could benefit from a heavier workload if Davis is ultimately held out or limited against Phoenix. James hasn’t dipped below 54 DKFP once in the last 10 games and has been one of this year’s more dependable DFS options.
Devin Booker ($13,800) is experiencing a spike in offensive production and we think that’s a trend that will continue. After failing to reach 20 points in four straight contests, he has rebounded eclipse 30 points in each of his last three appearances while logging nearly 40 minutes per contest and taking an average of 22 shots. Although Los Angeles has the second-best defensive rating in the NBA, Booker should do just fine matching up with the likes of Avery Bradley and Danny Green because of his creativity and knack for making tough shots.
FLEX Options
Most people in this Showdown contest will probably have similar choices when it comes to their three most expensive players, so you’ll have to make up for that with productive value picks. Each team has role players who can pop off on any given night, and we want to make sure you choose the right ones this time around.
Kelly Oubre Jr. ($8,000) played limited minutes in a loss to the Golden State Warriors late last Week because of a groin injury but seems to have recovered just fine. The versatile wing has logged at least 40 minutes in back to back contests, posting two of his best fantasy stat lines of the season. As a SF/PF, Oubre should be utilized as a deterrent on the defensive end against against LeBron and AD (if he’s active). This could translate to another solid performance if he can put together a third straight 20-point outing.
Ricky Rubio ($9,000) is nearly averaging a double-double this year and should have his ceiling raised by the return of a capable scoring big like Deandre Ayton, who is entering his fourth game back from a 25-game suspension. The last time Rubio faced the Los Angeles he tallied 21 points, 10 assists, and four rebounds. He could produce a similar stat line or improve upon it now that the Suns’ roster is complete and Los Angeles might not be at full strength.