Tuesday’s postseason action means a three-game featured NBA DFS slate. It all gets started in Beantown, where the Celtics hope to take down the 76ers. Later, the Hawks and Knicks will battle for a pivotal Game 5. As a nightcap, it’ll be the Trail Blazers and Spurs facing off in Texas. Despite the big names taking the floor tonight, it’s not just about high-priced players. Lower cost options can go a long way for savvy fantasy managers. Which bargains are worth a closer look ahead of this evening’s matchups?
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SF Mikal Bridges, New York Knicks vs. ATL ($4,900)
I know what you’re thinking. Mikal Bridges has been abysmal for most of the first round, even ceding crunch time minutes to Deuce McBride ($3,700). Through four games against Atlanta, the eighth-year pro is averaging 7.3 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists (12.1 FPTS). To boot, he’s shooting just 42% from the field in this series (25% 3PT). Still, it’s not as if the wing is a complete scrub. During the regular season, he posted 14.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.3 steals per game (28.5 FPTS). A performance more in line with those numbers would be a welcome sight for New York.
Credit to Atlanta’s defense, which has pestered several other Knicks stars during this four-game set. Regardless, a better showing almost feels inevitable for Bridges. It’s worth noting that the veteran has only logged a combined 40 minutes over his last two appearances. Still, he remains New York’s second-best defender behind OG Anunoby ($6,200). At home, following two days off, the wing should be in a better head space. It’s worth noting that Bridges has tallied at least 14 points and seven rebounds + assists during three regular season meetings with the Hawks. Much has changed with Atlanta’s roster, but there’s a blueprint for success. At the end of the day, I’m always willing to back a player this talented at less than $5,000.
C Robert Williams, Portland Trail Blazers at SAS ($4,400)
It’s desperation time for the Trail Blazers, down 3-1 in their series with San Antonio. As is the case against Victor Wembanyama ($11,000), Portland’s chances at winning come down to protecting the paint. Starting center Donovan Clingan ($5,900) hasn’t been at his best over the past four games, averaging just 20.9 fantasy points. Fortunately, the visitors have another capable big man in backup Robert Williams. This postseason, the rim protector is putting up 9.3 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.0 assists (27.1 FPTS). On defense, he’s chipped in with 1.5 blocks and 0.5 steals. He’s played 23+ minutes in each of Portland’s last three contests as well.
It’s not just increased playing time that should have fantasy managers optimistic when it comes to Williams. The former Celtics standout has had his numbers limited due to injures and a minutes restriction. However, per36 marks of 14.2 points, 14.8 rebounds and 3.1 blocks this season hint at some untapped potential. It helps that the Spurs have been somewhat generous against opposing big men. San Antonio has surrendered the eighth-most fantasy points to centers. In a must-win scenario, head coach Tiago Splitter should ride with the hot hand down low. At less than $4,400, there’s a decent chance Williams is the more productive of Portland’s two centers tonight.
