The NBA Cup is finally coming to a close, with Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks taking on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder for the in-season title. With so many big names in action, narrowing down a select group to start in season-long fantasy and DFS formats is a difficult task. Here are the three forwards at the top of tonight’s board:
Set your DraftKings fantasy basketball lineups here: NBA Showdown $400K NBA Cup Special [$100K to 1st] (MIL @ OKC)
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks vs. OKC ($19,500)
Whether it’s a one-game slate or ten, Giannis Antetokounmpo is going to sit atop the list of fantasy forwards. The two-time MVP is making a strong push to add to his trophy case, averaging a league-leading 32.7 points to go along with 11.5 rebounds and 6.1 assists. To cap it all off, the superstar is shooting a ridiculously efficient 61.4% from the field.
The Thunder are the NBA’s top defense, giving up just 103.5 points per game. However, OKC is vulnerable on the glass, surrendering a league-worst 57.5 rebounds to opponents. Antetokounmpo has been incredibly consistent lately, scoring 30 points or more in nine of his last ten outings. Fresh off of a 32-point, 14-rebound, nine-assist performance last weekend vs. Atlanta, expect the Greek Freak to flirt with another triple-double in this marquee matchup.
2. Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder vs. MIL ($15,600)
The Thunder are led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but every Batman needs a Robin. This season, that’s been Jalen Williams. The third-year pro has continued to improve under head coach Mark Daigneault, putting up 21.7 points, 6.1 rebounds and 5.0 assists through 25 games. J-Dub’s remarkable versatility on both ends of the floor has made him an invaluable piece for Oklahoma City, as he’s served as both a lead ball handler and a small-ball center.
There’s plenty of ways for Williams to contribute, which makes him a terrific asset in DFS formats. The 23-year-old has recorded either 20 points or 10 combined rebounds and assists in all but two appearances this season. The Bucks are giving up the fewest DK fantasy points to power forwards, but OKC’s talented young star isn’t your typical 4. Williams is a reasonable compromise for those looking to avoid Antetokounmpo’s massive price tag.
3. Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks vs. OKC ($9,900)
It hasn’t been the best start for Khris Middleton. After making his season debut on December 6th, the three-time All-Star has posted a paltry 7.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists on 25.9% shooting over four games. While it’s tough to judge a player on such a small sample size, it’s fair to say Bucks fans were hoping for more out of a franchise legend.
On the bright side, the 33-year-old has found a way to chip in without scoring the basketball. Despite playing just over 21 minutes a night, he’s tallied an average of 8.8 combined rebounds and assists. Assuming Middleton’s shot begins to fall, there’s a reasonable pathway to fantasy production even with a minutes restriction still in place. Forward might be a position worth paying up for, but those looking to spend elsewhere should give this veteran sharpshooter a chance in their fantasy lineups.
Set your DraftKings fantasy basketball lineups here: NBA Showdown $400K NBA Cup Special [$100K to 1st] (MIL @ OKC)
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All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook, lines and odds subject to change.
I am a promoter at DraftKings and am also an avid fan and user (my username is barmy) and may sometimes play on my personal account in the games that I offer advice on. Although I have expressed my personal view on the games and strategies above, they do not necessarily reflect the view(s) of DraftKings and do not constitute a representation that any particular strategy will guarantee success. All customers should use their own skill and judgment in building lineups. I may also deploy different players and strategies than what I recommend above. I am not an employee of DraftKings and do not have access to any non-public information.
