A seven-game, 14-team featured NBA DFS slate is set to tip off on Saturday. High-priced stars such as Luka Doncic ($12,300), Victor Wembanyama ($11,200) and Jalen Johnson ($10,700) are expected to take the floor. Still, it’s never a bad idea to think outside the box. In order to support costly superstars, some lesser-known names are needed. Which bargain plays should fantasy managers consider for their lineups tonight?
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SF/PF Tristan da Silva, Orlando Magic vs. LAL ($4,700)
The Magic have maintained a solid record without star forward Franz Wagner (ankle) active. A big reason behind the team’s stellar play of late is Tristan da Silva. The Colorado alum has been decent, albeit unspectacular, for most of his two-year NBA career. However, he’s done well in a larger role as of late. Over his last 15 games, da Silva is averaging 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.3 steals. During that stretch, he’s also delivered 47/39/96 shooting splits.
Saturday’s matchup could see more points than usual for the slower-paced Magic. Los Angeles comes into this one on a roll, having won eight straight games. Against a star-studded Lakers squad, Orlando will need all the buckets it can get. da Silva has tallied at least 21.0 fantasy points in eight of his previous ten outings. That’s a solid floor for production heading into this evening’s battle between postseason contenders.
PG/SG Coby White, Charlotte Hornets vs. MEM ($4,600)
In one of the more slept-on moves from the trade deadline, Charlotte acquired Coby White from the Bulls. The microwave scorer has had to adjust, going from main option in Chicago to sixth man. However, he’s given his new club a major boost off the bench so far. Through ten games with the Hornets, White has provided 15.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists (25.3 FPTS). In that stretch, he’s shooting 44% from the field (36% 3PT).
White’s dependence on scoring, along with inconsistent minutes, can make him a high-risk fantasy option. With that being said, the 26-year-old has tallied 33+ fantasy points in each of his last three appearances. He’ll look to keep that streak going against an abysmal Grizzlies defense. Memphis has coughed up the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing point guards this season. Given the advantageous matchup on hand, White is poised for another quality performance on Saturday.
PG/SG Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs vs. IND ($4,500)
The Spurs have managed to win 52 total games despite keeping Dylan Harper in a limited bench role. Granted, the second overall pick from last year’s NBA Draft has the look of a future star. Still, like many rookies, a learning curve is to be expected. Through 57 games, the Rutgers alum is averaging 11.1 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.8 assists (23.1 FPTS). Despite lackluster shooting from deep, the guard has managed to hit on 49% of his shots from the field this season.
Saturday is the perfect spot for Harper to get additional playing time. The 20-year-old has only garnered 22.2 minutes per game from San Antonio head coach Mitch Johnson. It’s highly unlikely the injury-decimated Pacers keep things close for 48 minutes tonight. When Harper is on the floor, he’ll be facing a terrible perimeter defense. Indiana has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing point guards. No matter what the game script calls for, Harper should deliver on this modest $4,500 price tag.
