Best lineup strategy for Timbers-Galaxy Showdown

The Los Angeles Galaxy will take on the Portland Timbers Monday night. This will be each team’s first game since March, as neither side has taken part in the MLS is Back Tournament yet. DraftKings has DFS competitions available for the contest, and we break down some ideal strategies below. You can set your lineups here.

Captain’s Picks

The departure of Zlatan Ibrahamovic left the Galaxy searching for a new star. Although Javier Hernandez ($15,600) hasn’t played well since joining Los Angeles, this could be the perfect opportunity for him to have his first explosive outing in the MLS. Cristian Pavon ($18.900) will likely be the most popular captain’s pick, but Chicharito has the ability to outshine him.

Diego Valeri ($18,600) is the second most expensive player in the slate and has scored Portland’s only two goals this season. The midfielder is a versatile option that scored eight goals last year while also leading the team with 16 assists. He’s shown that he can be a capable scorer and his crossing raises his floor.

Flex

Andy Polo ($4,800) is still looking to make his mark as a goal scorer with Portland, and speed makes him dangerous. He tallied the third assist of his MLS career in the only game he’s played for the Timbers this year, and his pace should help him get in behind a Galaxy defense that gave up a ton of goals last year. Polo just has to make the most of the opportunities he gets.

Emiliano Insua ($9,900) is new to the Galaxy and is proving to be a capable fullback. He has sent in a healthy 13 crosses in the two appearances he’s made for Los Angeles and hasn’t been shy about attempting to go for goal himself. He’s easily the most valuable defender in the game.