Friday offers up a stacked seven-game, 14-team featured NBA DFS slate. That means fantasy basketball managers will have their pick of the litter when it comes to selecting a big name. With former MVPs and budding young superstars all available, it’s never been easier to drain your budget.
Still, the unfortunate reality is that every high-cost option demands a bargain or two as well. Figuring out which players are diamonds in the rough is the tricky part. Which under the radar selections should managers consider tonight? Here are three to target in DFS and season-long fantasy formats.
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SF/PF Zaccharie Risacher, Atlanta Hawks at DEN ($4,900)
The Hawks made a massive move this week, trading away franchise mainstay Trae Young. Atlanta’s roster is now centered around its wings, headlined by Jalen Johnson ($10,800). However, it’s been a lackluster campaign from second-year pro Zaccharie Risacher. The former number one overall pick hasn’t blossomed into a consistent starter. With his minutes in flux, the Frenchman is averaging 11.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game (20.7 FPTS). In addition, he’s delivered 46/36/64 shooting splits.
On the bright side, Risacher just enjoyed one of his best performances of the season on Wednesday. Against New Orleans, he tallied 25 points and eight rebounds (39 FPTS) over 34 minutes. He’ll look to carry that over into an advantageous matchup tonight in Denver. The Nuggets, shorthanded due to injury, are allowing the fourth-most fantasy points to small forwards. As a starter in this potential shootout, Risacher could be in store for another terrific stat line.
PG/SG Anfernee Simons, Boston Celtics vs. TOR ($4,700)
As part of the package for Jrue Holiday, Anfernee Simons has underwhelmed for Boston. Through 36 games, the former Trail Blazer is putting up 13.6 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.4 assists. In addition, he’s shot a mediocre 44% from the field (40% 3PT). Those numbers aren’t the most promising for fantasy purposes. Score-first guards coming off the bench are the definition of boom-or-bust. If Simons’ shot isn’t falling, he’s unlikely to provide much value elsewhere.
With that being said, Friday is an ideal spot for the 26-year-old. The Raptors are a solid defensive unit, allowing the fifth-fewest points per game (111.9) to opponents. However, Toronto has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to shooting guards this season. In addition, one of the team’s best defenders in Scottie Barnes (knee) is doubtful to play. When these teams last met on December 20th, Simons delivered a solid 15-point, three rebound performance (24.8 FPTS). Worth noting: the guard has recorded at least 23 fantasy points during his previous six appearances. Expect an even better showing tonight at home for the sharpshooter.
PF Khris Middleton, Washington Wizards vs. NOP ($4,000)
As previously mentioned, Trae Young is now a member of the Wizards. However, the point guard won’t be taking the floor for at least another few weeks. Going back in return for Atlanta are CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert. The duo’s departure opens up even more minutes and touches on offense for the Wizards. On an otherwise youthful Washington roster, Khris Middleton is an elder statesman. This season, the 34-year-old has accounted for 9.8 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game (21.7 FPTS).
Those are less than impressive stats, even for a veteran. Regardless, Middleton should see more usage now that McCollum is gone. It helps that the wing has started in all 24 of his outings this season. Tonight, Washington will take on another terrible squad in the Pelicans. New Orleans has given up the third-most fantasy points to small forwards. In addition, the Pels could be without both Herb Jones (ankle) and Trey Murphy (back/ankle), their two best defenders. Middleton is far from a sure thing, but he’s worth taking a flier on at just $4,000.
