Injuries and ever-changing rotations are the only guarantee in the NBA, which makes finding value in DFS contests a difficult task. Yet, if you look close enough, there’s plenty of hidden gems available to slot into your lineups. Here are three players from Thursday’s slate that are being slept on.
Set your DraftKings fantasy basketball lineups here: NBA $300K Fadeaway [$100K to 1st]
PF Tari Eason, Houston Rockets ($5,100)
A high-stakes showdown is set to tip off in Memphis when the Grizzlies host the Rockets. Houston, 32-14, has emerged as a contender not due to star power, but rather its depth. That’s especially true at forward, where Ime Udoka has the luxury of shuffling through several high-upside options at the position. Among those names, Tari Eason has proven to be a difference-maker. This season, the LSU alum has averaged 11.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.0 steals while shooting 46.9% from the field.
Eason’s all-around play usually makes him a safe low-cost DFS option, even with a limited amount of minutes played. That hasn’t been the case lately, as the wing has accumulated 31.25 FPTS over his last two outings. Tonight, he should be more productive against a Memphis team playing at the fasted pace in the NBA (104.48). This season, the Grizzlies have given up the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing power forwards. Assuming Thursday’s contest leads to more possessions, the third-year pro can put up some numbers in a hurry.
SG/SF Max Strus, Cleveland Cavaliers ($4,500)
Lost in the discourse surrounding the red-hot Cavaliers is how good their bench has been. A quality collection of role players, including Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, and Ty Jerome, have all shined at various moments this season. However, the most dangerous weapon at Cleveland’s disposal might be Max Strus. That isn’t necessarily reflected in the 28-year-old’s statistics this season (7.9 PPG, 40.3 FG%). However, the veteran has a knack for making tough shots in big moments, as seen during his time in Miami.
In the right matchup, Strus can kill a defense from beyond the arc. That could come tonight against the Hawks, who will be without one of their best defenders, Jalen Johnson (shoulder). This season, Atlanta has allowed the most three-pointers made per game (14.5) and the fourth-highest three-point percentage (37.3%) to opponents. That’s perfect for Cleveland’s sharpshooter, who has knocked down two or more treys in nine of his 18 appearances. Fantasy managers looking to fill out their lineup should grab any cheap piece of this loaded Cavaliers offense.
SG/SF Dalton Knecht, Los Angeles Lakers ($3,900)
The Lakers are on a roll, having won six of their last eight games. During that time, Los Angeles has gotten contributions from several bench pieces, including Dalton Knecht. The rookie has been inconsistent, but it’s hard to keep him off the court in the midst of a heater. That was the case last night, as the Tennessee product racked up 24 points in just 23 minutes of play (32.25 FPTS). On the season, Knecht has averaged 9.5 points on 46.4% shooting from the field (36.1 3PT%).
No matchup in the NBA offers as much fantasy value as a date with the Wizards. This season, Washington has allowed the most points per game to opponents (122.4) and the second-most DK fantasy points to shooting guards. Half of the appeal here is due to blowout potential. If the Lakers enter the fourth quarter with a large lead, there should be plenty of minutes available for Knecht. At $3,900, the 23-year-old is essentially free, making him a potential steal on Thursday night.
