FanDuel daily picks: Fantasy basketball lineup – October 17, 2018
High Salary SG
Players costing over $6,667
DeMar DeRozan (vs MIN – $8,300): Needs 34.1 fantasy points. Gregg Popovich is going to get the most out of DeRozan. It will help that his first game is against Minnesota and whatever their defense is. DeRozan will play with a huge chip on his shoulder this season and Popovich is proven to be a coach who can maximize the talent of players. I have all the confidence in the world in Popovich and regular season DeRozan remains one of the best shooting guards in the league. Diagnosis: Trust in Pop.
Donovan Mitchell (at SAC – $8,000): Needs 32.8 fantasy points. Sophomore Donovan against the Kings? Yes, please. Mitchell was great against the Kings last season (averaged 40.4 fantasy points in three games) and should be even better on opening night. Playing on the road for opening night is always a concern because the crowd is amped up and the home players feed off that. But this is the Kings we’re talking about. The Jazz are going to be a top 3 team in the West and Mitchell carrying the offense will be a big reason why. Diagnosis: Great matchup, proven player. If Mitchell doesn’t have at least 40 fantasy points, something has gone horribly wrong or the game is over by halftime.
Khris Middleton (at CHA – $7,900): Needs 32.4 fantasy points. I’m all in on Milwaukee this season now that they have a good head coach. Middleton is already very good, but he’s going to have a career year this season. He was great against the Hornets last season, averaging 45.1 fantasy points in four games. He’s going to get so many open looks next to center Giannis. I also expect him to take the next step in his playmaking ability. If he’s not scoring, his value can be hurt a bit, but he’s going to score without an issue on Wednesday. Diagnosis: If you don’t want to take Giannis, take those around Giannis. Middleton is set for a huge game.
Quick Hits
Luka Doncic ($6,700): Because, Suns. No Harrison Barnes should increase his usage, but does take away a reliable shooter.
Lou Williams ($6,900): Because, Nuggets.