NBA: The First Round is Underway
We’re back again for another week, although the energy in fantasy basketball is notably different without the same daily games and grind. While the amount of games and players has shriveled some, the intensity and strategy of the games is still very much in existence, and hey, it’s the playoffs!
You have to stay on top of injuries and role changes more than ever with fewer value options during the playoffs. A missed opportunity this week could cost you the win. So jump into the bulk of our weekly preview to get injury updates and a look inside some of the player value to be had.
Injury Report
Chauncey Billups – The grizzled vet hurt his knee in Sunday’s loss to the Boston Celtics, and is currently not expected to start game two. Look for Toney Douglas to get major run in Billups’ absence, who’s performed admirably in his absence in the past and is a near must-start.
Darren Collison – DC hurt his ankle against the Chicago Bulls on Monday night and did not return. His official status during and after the game was “day-to-day”, and he should be monitored before his next game if you plan on using him. A.J. Price’s value would climb a bit if Collison can’t go for game three.
Nene Hilario – Nene played through a knee injury on Sunday night, and played quite well. However, if the knee acts up during pre-game warm-ups this week, he could be a game-time decision. Monitor his status if you plan on using him this week.
Shaquille O’Neal – For Boston, Shaquille O’Neal is likely going to miss his second straight playoff game, and may be out until after the first round, if Boston makes it that far. O’Neal is dealing with a leg injury, while Jermaine O’Neal looks to be the biggest beneficiary while he’s out.
Dwyane Wade – Wade started on Monday night despite dealing with migraines, and shot 4-for-11 from the floor. He’ll probably get back to his usual self in game three, but at least looks to be cleared to be playing without daily gamers fretting over his status.
Fantasy Playoff Risers and Fallers
Mike Conley, Jr. – PG, Memphis Grizzlies (Riser)
This may be the passing of the torch when all is said and done. Conley is turning into a very solid point guard right before his eyes, and already has the Grizzlies up 1-0 on the Spurs after scoring 15 points and dishing out 10 assists. He has the speed and quickness to consistently beat Tony Parker, and that’s saying something. Look for Conley to find his way to solid numbers all series long.
Glen Davis, F/C – Boston Celtics (Faller)
After a glimmer of hope with the Shaq injury, Davis was a miserable 1-for-8 for two points and five rebounds in 25 minutes off the bench for Boston in game one against the Knicks. It’s hard to go off of just one game, but considering what Davis has to offer is already fairly limited, I’d suggest looking for another cheap role player other than him.
Lock of the Week
Marc Gasol – C, Memphis Grizzlies
I am loving Gasol’s energy and inside scoring right now. He went 9-for-10 in scoring 24 points in the series-opening win for the Grizzlies. He and Zach Randolph should continue to flex their muscle toward the Spurs’ lack of size. I just don’t see Tim Duncan or DeJuan Bair denying this guy. Look for 20 points and 10 rebounds per game this week.
Top 2 Picks For Round 1
I probably should have touched on this in last week’s article, but now that I’ve had a pretty good look at every matchup, I think I’ve found two guys that won’t slow down during the first round. And those two guys are Chris Paul and Zach Randolph.
Both are guys who are already studs, so these picks aren’t too flashy for fantasy. But if you want two guys who will get you a double-double and have explosive potential on any given night, you have to get them in your lineup. Add the fact that both players have reasonable advantages in their matchups, and they’re a lethal duo to reach for.
Sleeper of the Week
Thaddeus Young – F, Philadelphia 76ers ($6,100)
Young has performed well in the playoffs through two games, averaging 19 points and 8.5 rebounds. He’s clearly been the top performer, albeit unlikely, for the 76ers, and there’s little reason to think he can’t keep it up. He can be had on the cheap at FanDuel, too, for just over $6,000.
Matchup Special
Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder:
This series is only one game old, but it’s already shaping up to be exactly what we thought it would. Both of these teams can score the ball, and while they have the ability to defend, generally don’t shut it down for more than a half of a game. Look for these two teams to engage in offensive battles for the entire series, and if you need a straggler fantasy pick, plucking a guy off of one of these squads probably isn’t a bad gamble.
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About the Writer: Kevin Roberts is a Concordia University graduate with over five years of experience in covering the NFL, NBA, Fantasy Basketball and Fantasy Football. He has had several articles featured on FOXSports.com and CBSSports.com, owns and operates NFLSoup.com and NBASoup.com, and currently resides in Florida with his wife.