Just four games are on tap for Saturday’s featured NBA slate. Still, opportunistic fantasy basketball managers have plenty of options at their disposal. That includes several low-cost players to pair with any stars.
Who should you target to fill out your lineups? Here are two names worth consideration in DFS and season-long fantasy basketball formats.
Set your DraftKings fantasy basketball lineups here: NBA $200K Fadeaway [$50K to 1st]
PG Jeremiah Fears, New Orleans Pelicans vs. ATL ($4,800)
During an otherwise dismal season for the Pelicans, Jeremiah Fears has been a bright spot. Through 16 games, the rookie is averaging 15.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists. With Jordan Poole (quad) still sidelined, Fears remains in control of an otherwise lackluster back court. The 19-year-old continues to progress, including a 21-point, seven-assist, six-rebound performance vs. Denver on Friday. New Orleans has handed the youngster 25+ minutes in each of his previous nine appearances.
Fears will look to keep rolling against a decent, albeit unspectacular, defense. Onyeka Okongwu (ankle) could miss tonight’s game, leaving Atlanta without its best rim protector. In addition, the Hawks have coughed up 125.7 points over their last three games. Other than Zion Williamson ($8,200) and Trey Murphy ($7,000), there’s opportunity in this New Orleans offense. Fears has recorded at least 25 fantasy points in five of his last six outings. A similar effort should be in store tonight.
PF/C Jalen Smith, Chicago Bulls vs. WAS ($4,200)
A hot start has now faded for the Bulls, mainly due to their struggles on defense. Still, Chicago has some intriguing pieces, especially on offense. That includes former lottery pick Jalen Smith. The big man, in a part-time role, has been a solid source of points off the bench. Over 15 games, he’s averaging 10.1 points and 5.7 rebounds to go with 49/39/71 shooting splits. However, the Maryland alum is only playing just over 16 minutes per game.
Smith’s ability to produce in a limited amount of time makes him an ideal buy-low. That’s especially true against tonight’s opponent, arguably the NBA’s worst team. Washington has allowed the most points (129.7) and third-most rebounds (59.1) per game. In addition, the Wizards have surrendered the most fantasy points to opposing centers. On the second leg of a back-to-back, veteran Nikola Vucevic ($8,000) could see a minutes reduction as well. That should lead to an increase in playing time, and production, for Smith.
