Fantasy Basketball Picks: Top DraftKings NBA DFS Lineup Strategy for Suns vs. Nets Showdown on February 16

We’ve already lost one game Tuesday because of COVID-19, dropping the slate to just six games. Luckily, one of them has the makings of an exciting matchup with the Phoenix Suns hosting the Brooklyn Nets. This game is also the featured Showdown contest on DraftKings, so let’s discuss some players to consider for your entries.

Editor’s Note: Nets PG Kyrie Irving (back) has been ruled out for tonight’s game vs. the Suns.

Set your DraftKings Showdown lineups here: NBA Showdown $300K Fadeaway [$100K to 1st] (BKN vs PHO)

SHOWDOWN STRATEGY

Captain’s Pick

James Harden ($18,000 CP): The Nets are once again playing without Kevin Durant (hamstring), who is slated to miss at least one more game. Their start trio of Harden, Durant and Kyrie Irving ($10,400) still haven’t played many games together and losing Durant for a matchup against one of the better teams in the West is a tough blow. Across the last four games that Durant missed, Harden averaged 56.8 DKFP. Expect to him have an extremely high floor, which makes him an appealing option for the Captain’s spot.

Deandre Ayton ($12,600 CP): If you’re looking for a player with a reduced salary at the Captain’s spot in order to create a more well-balanced lineup, then Ayton should be on your radar. His scoring numbers are down significantly this season, but he’s still be a valuable fantasy option with his averages of 13.8 points and 12.3 rebounds. This is also an excellent matchup for him against a Nets’ team that is ranked 27th in the league in terms of fantasy points allowed to opposing centers.

FLEX Plays

Devin Booker ($9,600): The Nets have fifth-worst defensive rating in the league, so the Suns could be in store for a prolific offensive performance. Enter Booker, who may finally be heating up after averaging 32.3 points across his last four games. His assists totals have been down this season, but that was to be expected with Chris Paul ($9,000) now in the fold. Still, with his scoring abilities, this matchup makes Booker a very appealing option.

Jeff Green ($6,400): Green is not a flashy option, but he’s become an important member of the Nets. They’ll need his size even more with Durant out. He’s on pace to have the most efficient season of his career, shooting 50.5 percent from the field and 83.3 percent from the charity stripe. With significant playing time likely coming his way in this game, he’s among the top options in the mid-tier salary range.

Dario Saric ($3,800): Saric recently missed 13 games with an ankle injury and finally made his return Saturday against the Sixers. He didn’t waste any time making an impact, scoring 33.5 DKFP across 20 minutes. However, he followed that up with 12.3 DKFP Sunday versus the Magic. He’s not one of the focal points of the Suns’ offense and their improved depth will likely limit his playing time more often than not. With all of that being said, he’s a dangerous shooter from behind the arc, so it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him provide value with the Nets struggling on defense.

Fades

Joe Harris ($6,800): This is not a good matchup for Harris, who is known for his propensity to light things up from behind the arc. The Suns are not only a good defensive team, but they have allowed the fourth-lowest three-point shooting percentage in the league. Given that Harris doesn’t normally provide much in the way or rebounds and assists, adding him to your entry comes with plenty of risk.

The Outcome

Playing the second night of a back-to-back set without one of their best players will likely doom the Nets. The Suns are also a sparkling 10-4 at home this season while the Nets are just 6-7 on the road. The Suns are also healthy heading into this game, which further tilts the scales in their favor.

Final Score: Suns 118, Nets 112

Set your DraftKings Showdown lineups here: NBA Showdown $300K Fadeaway [$100K to 1st] (BKN vs PHO)

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