NBA Expert Picks Preview: Thursday, January 22nd
Glean insight from the best minds in the industry as they list picks they’ll actually be targeting in their cash games, along with detailed analysis and reasoning.
Thursday, January 22nd
POINT GUARD
Damian Lillard, $9,000 vs Boston
On a four-game slate, Damian is the first guy I’m locking into my lineups this evening. With star LaMarcus Aldridge out, the Portland point guard will be relied upon. He hurled up 22 shots last night, and when he’s not chucking the ball, he’ll be dishing out dimes. This game has the highest over/under on the night and the Celtics have been vulnerable to PGs this season. One thing that we talk about often is that if you like a guy on DraftKings, and he’s cheaper on FanDuel, then he becomes even that more intriguing. Don’t overthink this one or get too cute. Just roster Lillard and move on.
We finally saw a good game out of Tony Parker and he comes in with a very friendly price tag this evening. Trey Burke had a disappointing game for the first time in a while last night. The asking price is ideal, but the matchup isn’t, so I’d be more likely to consider him more for GPPs. Similar to Trey, Jarrett Jack doesn’t have a prime matchup vs Chris Paul (who is worthy of a roster spot if you can find the funds), but he should be asked to to play a pile of minutes with Deron Williams out. Again, I’ll likely reserve him for tournaments. As for rostering Chris Paul, pairing him with the aforementioned Lillard makes for a phenomenal floor, but you would need to save salary elsewhere, with it being a pricey combination.
SHOOTING GUARD
Wesley Matthews, $5,700 vs Boston
I should have warned you when suggesting Lillard; get used to seeing a ton of Trail Blazers. Once again, with the absence of LaMarcus Aldridge, the trickle down effect of available shots will lead to Wesley increasing his fantasy earning potential this evening. He launched 17 shots last night and 37 in his last two contests. General speaking Matthews isn’t the sexiest of selections, but he typically won’t bust your cash team. Opposing defender Avery Bradley may be tasked with covering Matthews, which won’t be ideal, but that won’t chase me away as I’ll take my chances with his expected volume.
The production of Jimmy Butler has slowed down a bit of late, but the he has experienced a slight price dip as well. On a four-game slate, few players offer such a sound floor. Manu Ginobili doesn’t play a ton of minutes, but he’ll grab you a fantasy point per minute which should lead to a satisfying output this evening. With Deron Williams out, I’d expect Joe Johnson to continue to play a bunch of minutes tonight (no less than 37 in his last four games).
SMALL FORWARD
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