Best lineup strategy for Courage-Spirit Showdown

Wednesday’s NWSL action will wrap with a matchup between two undefeated teams. The North Carolina Courage will face the Washington Spirit at 10:00 p.m. ET. Both sides have one win in group play. We break down the ideal Showdown lineup strategies for DFS, and you can set your DraftKings lineup here.

Captain’s Picks

The Courage are looking like a powerhouse in the NWSL once again and have a plethora of talent at their disposal. Lynn Williams ($14,100) has been a big reason why North Carolina has finished atop the league for two straight years. She’s been the Courage’s top scorer for three seasons in a row and has been second in the league for the last two years. She kicked off the Challenge Cup with a goal against a tough Portland Thorns team and has a good chance to continue being dominant in her second game of the tournament.

Rose Lavelle ($13,500) and Ashley Hatch ($12,300) lead the way for Washington in its first match. Both players scored one goal in a 2-1 victory against the Chicago Red Stars over the weekend. I’d give Hatch the edge here, as Lavelle has limited NWSL experience since being drafted in 2018. She’s led Washington in goals for two straight years and is more familiar with the team.

Flex Plays

Debinha ($9,800) is one of the NWSL’s better passers and was second in the league with seven assists last year. Her playmaking ability could be even more important than usual while Jessica McDonald recovering from a thigh injury. She scored against Portland but also sent in six crosses and five shots. Her distribution skill will be important for the Courage’s persistent attack.

Crystal Dunn ($10,200) didn’t register a score or assist in her las outing, but she can affect the outcomes of games in more ways than one. She’s tallied 15 goals and nine assists since returning to the NWSL following a brief stint with Chelsea. She tallied 11 DKFP in 65 minutes against Portland and could improve upon that mark if she plays a full 90 minutes.