DraftKings daily picks: Fantasy basketball lineup – May 26, 2018
Rockets-Warriors (Rockets Lead 3-2)
With only one game on the schedule, your top DraftKings option is Showdown. If you’re unfamiliar with Showdown, it’s a one game league where you have six spots, positions don’t matter, salaries are inflated from your typical leagues, and you have to select at least one player from each team.
James Harden ($14,700) is expected to carry the Rockets offense with Chris Paul out, but I’m not sold on it happening. He looked gassed in Game 5 and this has always been the knock on Harden in the playoffs. The longer the series goes, the more tired and less effective he becomes. He’ll be the catalyst for everything the Rockets do, but the Warriors offer more value.
Kevin Durant ($13,500) continues to score at an inefficient level, but he isn’t doing much of anything else. That’s an issue. Is this the game Durant finally moves the ball and stops taking so many shots? My guess is that it is.
At least we know Steph Curry ($13,300) will pick up assets and rebounds to go along with his scoring. And he won’t have to deal with Chris Paul on both sides of the floor. Things are lining up for a big night from Curry.
Draymond Green ($12,100) will likely get another double-double with a chance at a triple-double. He’s good for around 40 fantasy points. Clint Capela ($9,900) continues to be a reliable option and with Chris Paul out, this might be his time to shine. He’s Harden’s favorite sidekick and could be in for a strong scoring and rebounding night.
Eric Gordon ($11,200) sees a big jump in salary as he’ll move into the starting lineup and play the CP3 role. He’s been excellent as a starter this season and the opportunities will certainly be there. But his play on the road this series doesn’t give me much confidence.
Klay Thompson ($8,700) shot well in Game 5 and didn’t show discomfort coming off the knee injury. He’s been up-and-down in the series, but you know he’s going to get his shots.
P.J. Tucker ($7,900) and Trevor Ariza ($6,200) will see their role increase, but it’s tough to trust either one given the situation. Tucker has proven to be more reliable in the playoffs, but Ariza is a big money saver for what could be similar production.
The status of Andre Iguodala ($5,300) remains up in the air. The Warriors could play it safe since Paul is out, figuring four All-Stars at should be enough. Or they may take no chances being down 3-2. If he plays, he’ll have a huge impact.
Kevon Looney ($3,800), Shaun Livingston ($2,900), Jordan Bell ($2,100), Quinn Cook ($1,300), and Nick Young ($1,500) may get some playing time if this game gets ugly.
Gerald Green ($3,600) will be a bigger part of the rotation and get more shots while Luc Mbah a Moute ($1,700) may become a factor.