Jordan Matthews WR | BUF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Buffalo Bills wide receiver Jordan Matthews practiced in full on Friday, a good sign that he is on track to play in Week 7 against the Buccaneers. He is still officially listed as questionable, just two and a half weeks after having surgery on his right thumb. If he is able to play it remains to be seen how effective he is, however, he should be in good shape to lead the team in targets and also has a positive matchup as the Buccaneers have struggled against the pass this season. It appears that Matthews' official status will likely remain up in the air until Sunday afternoon, so don;t count on him as a fantasy option this week. However, if he is able to go, Matthews serves as an under the radar sleeper for those in serious need of options at wide receiver.
Marshawn Lynch RB | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch has been suspended one game by the NFL for his role in an on-field fracas Thursday night against the Chiefs in which he made contact with and pushed an official. He will appeal the suspension, and a hearing is expected to take place early next week, according to a source. The good news is we should know whether Lynch will be able to play in Week 8 or not by early next week. Lynch has been a big fantasy disappointment and essentially is a touchdown-dependent RB3/flex. Plan to be without him next week against the Bills. That'll make Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington waiver wire options for the running back-needy. Neither will be more than a desperation flex option if Lynch's suspension holds up, but Richard has a little more appeal in PPR setups.
Aaron Rodgers QB | GB |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Updating a previous report, the Green Bay Packers are holding out hope that quarterback Aaron Rodgers (collarbone), who was placed on the Injured Reserve on Friday, can return Dec. 17 against the Panthers, according to a source. However, it may be a long shot. That would be Week 15, or the fantasy semifinals. It really would be a long shot, but not out of the realm of possibilities. Fantasy owners shouldn't be quite as optimistic, and you shouldn't feel forced to hang onto him, especially in shallower leagues. Brett Hundley is taking over starting duties. He is a high-risk, high-reward second quarterback. The Packers should be expected to lean more heavily on the ground game in the absence of Rodgers, which favors rookie Aaron Jones and Ty Montgomery .
Dede Westbrook WR | JAX |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Jacksonville Jaguars rookie wide receiver Dede Westbrook (hernia) is eligible to come off Injured Reserve after the team's Week 8 bye, and he could give the offense a needed jolt with Allen Robinson (knee) done for the year. Head coach Doug Marrone said reports suggest Westbrook is on track to return in Week 9. He underwent surgery Sept. 12 to fix a sports hernia and started catches passes on the sidelines last week. Westbrook has been running for two weeks and could return Nov. 5 against the Bengals. The young receiver had a good training camp and preseason but was set back by his hernia. He has a decent amount of upside and will have plenty of opportunity when he returns with Marqise Lee and Allen Hurns not standing out in the passing game. Westbrook is worth a stash in deeper leagues, but there's no guarantee he'll be a fantasy force once he's active.
Stanley Johnson SF | DET |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Heading into Friday's game Pistons head coach Stan Van Gundy was unsure if Stanley Johnson would be able to go for Detroit. He did not go through shootaround, but will play Friday despite going 0-for-13 from the field in Wednesday's victory. He was useful besides his shooting, he added four rebounds and two assists in 40 minutes. Unless his back spasms return mid-game expect Johnson to play his full minutes on Friday against the Washington Wizards.
Travis Kelce TE | KC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
It was an off night for Travis Kelce as far as 2017 standards. He caught 4-of-5 targets for 33 yards and one touchdown in the Week 7 loss to Oakland. He's now caught at least four passes in 6 of his last 7 games. He's averaging 60 yards a game, and should remain a huge part of the Chiefs offense going forward. Denver heads to town in Week 8, and that should mean another good game for Kelce.
Tyreek Hill WR | KC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Kansas City Chiefs finally found a way to get boom-or-bust receiver Tyreek Hill to explode. He caught 6-of-8 targets for 125 yards and a touchdown in the Chiefs loss on Thursday. This is the first time since Week 1 that Hill has finished with over 100 yards in a game. The biggest play of the game was when Hill caught a 64-yard touchdown in the second quarter. It's going to remain a wild ride for Hill owners as he heads into a matchup against a tough Denver defense.
Albert Almora CF | CHC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Speaking in his closing press confrence of the year Chicago Cubs President Theo Epstein said he told outfielder Albert Almora that would have more of a role going into next year. Almora had a nice sophomore campaign in which he hit .298 with eight home runs and 46 RBI despite starting just 65 games. He was also one of the best pinch-hitters in the league this year. With the Cubs having plenty of positional depth there is reason to believe the Cubs will be working the phones which could help Almora become an everyday player and even a leadoff man. Depending on how things shake out, he is worth keeping an eye on going to next years fantasy draft.
Kareem Hunt RB | KC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
In Week 6 the Steelers kept running back Kareem Hunt to just 21 rushing yards the whole game. The Raiders had a much more difficult time stopping Hunt as he rushed 18 times for 87 yards in the loss to Oakland on Thursday. It's strange that Hunt continues to put up tremendous numbers, but the Chiefs go ridiculously periods of time without giving him the ball. Regardless, Hunt continues to be an elite player each week whether it's in the pass game or on the ground.
Alex Smith QB | KC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith needed a bounce-back game and he definitely got that on Thursday. He completed 25 of 36 passes for 342 yards and three touchdowns in the loss to the Raiders. Smith now has a perfect 15:0 touchdown to interception ratio after the game on Thursday. His 342 passing yards were the fourth most of his career in a single game. It's safe to say that Alex Smith has been an elite quarterback this season, and is showing no signs of slowing down.
Jake Petricka P | CWS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Chicago White Sox relief pitcher Jake Petricka (elbow) underwent a nerve transposition in his right elbow on Friday. Petricka has been dealing with multiple injuries over the past few season and has only thrown 35 2/3 innings over the past two seasons. He threw to the tune of a 7.01 ERA over 25 2/3 innings this season. He is expected to miss three-to-four months.
Evan Gattis C | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Houston Astros catcher Evan Gattis is the designated hitter and is batting eighth against Yankees starter Luis Severino in Game 6 of the Championship Series on Friday. Designated hitter Carlos Beltran will start on the bench. Gattis has four hits in 14 at-bats (.286) this postseason, but he hasn't gone deep yet and has only one RBI. He actually hit better against righties than lefties in 2017 and had eight of his 12 home runs against right-handers. Still, Gattis is a low-ceiling play against Severino tonight at the bottom of the order for DFS gamers.
Antonio Gates TE | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Future Hall of Fame tight end Antonio Gates looks to be winding down his career, according to his usage by the Los Angeles Chargers. Gates saw a ton of snaps early in the season, but ever since he got the tight end touchdown record, he's been relegated to backup duty behind second-year player Hunter Henry . Henry has flourished with the increased playing time, and Gates has averaged just three targets per game over the last three games. Gates will still see some opportunities and there's no active discussion of him just up and retiring, but it looks like his days of being fantasy relevant have come to a close.
Hunter Henry TE | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Tight end Hunter Henry has become a hot new target for the Los Angeles Chargers, and it looks like the passing of the guard is finally taking place. Future Hall of Famer Antonio Gates was believed to be a threat to Henry's playing time for the 2017 season, but it appears that threat has been mitigated. Early in the season, the team was focusing on getting the tight end touchdown record for Gates, but over the last two games, Henry has played 33% more snaps than him. Now that the team is on board with Henry seeing the majority of the action, he's getting the chance to spread his wings and looking like a star in the making. Henry should continue to be a popular target for Philip Rivers moving forward.
Denzel Valentine SG | CHI |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Chicago Bulls guard/forward Denzel Valentine missed practice on Friday due to a knee injury. That is not a good sign at all, and means he is questionable for Saturday's game against the Spurs. Valentine scored 12 points with two rebounds in 26 minutes off the bench in Thursday's loss to Toronto. If Valentine is unable to play then backup guard Kay Felder will see plenty of action. There is still a chance Valentine does suit up on Saturday, but he'll likely remain a game-time decision.
Marcedes Lewis TE | JAX |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Marcedes Lewis and the Jaguars will take on the Colts in Week 7. Lewis has been a fantasy ghost all season, putting up three touchdowns in one game and then disappearing the rest of the season. The Colts defense has given up the eighth most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season and the Jaguars may have to throw more than they would like with the questionable health of rookie standout Leonard Fournette . This could force quarterback Blake Bortles into action and could mean targets for Lewis. But it's not worth the risk starting a tight end that isn't even seeing the targets in an offense that is averaging 178 passing yards a game. Lewis is a stay-away for Week 7.
Zach Miller TE | CHI |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Zach Miller and the Bears will take on a Panthers defense that has allowed four touchdowns to opposing tight ends this season. Miller has scored the past two weeks and has averaged 9.2 fantasy points a game in standard scoring during that span. His touchdowns have been about as fluky as it gets scoring on a trick play and off a tipped pass. But Miller is the most established receiver in an offense bereft of outside play makers and a rookie quarterback that is leaning heavily on the tight end position. He may not have the most appeal in PPR-leagues, but is a decent bet to catch another touchdown against a Panthers defense that can be beaten. Miller is a TE2 with upside for Week 7.
Melvin Gordon RB | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon will be looking to continue his recent TD streak when he faces Denver in Week 7. Gordon has been a fantasy monster the last two weeks, racking up four touchdowns (three of them from receptions) and 313 yards from scrimmage. Gordon struggled on the ground against the Broncos in Week 1, but he did snag five catches and a receiving touchdown in the game. With his recent increase in receptions, expect him to be active as a checkdown against the strong defensive line of Denver. While he'll likely struggle on the ground once again, Gordon should still be involved enough to be a worthwhile starter.
Philip Rivers QB | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Los Angeles Chargers came up tantalizingly short against the Broncos in Week 2, and Philip Rivers will be out to get revenge when Denver comes to town in Week 7. Rivers threw for three touchdowns in the loss earlier this season, but he only amassed 192 passing yards against a strong Broncos defense. This time around, Rivers will likely turn to his new go-to receivers Melvin Gordon and Hunter Henry to help keep the Denver pass rush at bay. After the Broncos made the Giants look like superstars last week, Rivers should be licking his chops.
Ed Dickson TE | CAR |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Ed Dickson and the Panthers will line up with the Chicago Bears in Week 7. After two surprisingly strong fantasy stat lines, Dickson came back to earth last week. The Panthers will line up with a Bears defense that has allowed only two touchdown catches to opposing tight ends this season. Outside of a broken play from Falcons tight end Austin Hooper in Week 1, the Bears have been pretty stingy against the position. Dickson will be a risky, touchdown-dependent fantasy option this Sunday.
Hassan Whiteside C | MIA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Center Hassan Whiteside was an absolute beast on Wednesday against Orlando. He scored 26 points with 22 rebounds in 36 minutes, but will miss Saturday's game with a bone bruise. The Heat have officially ruled Whiteside out after he bumped knees with Nikola Vucevic in Wednesday's loss. The organization is not yet sure of the severity of the injury. The team has not announced who will start for Whiteside. Bam Adebayo will likely draw the start at center, but stay tuned for more information as the game approaches.
Carlos Correa SS | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa went 2-for-12 in the three games in Yankee Stadium, as the Astros now need to win to stay alive in the ALCS. The series has rapidly switched in momentum and the Astros are now scrambling for answers. What better place to find solace than Carlos Correa , their All-World shortstop. Correa went 3-for-7 in the two wins in Houston to open the series and is 6-for-19 with two home runs and seven runs batted in during the Astros five wins in the postseason. Bottom line? If Correa can produce at the plate, the Astros will take the series to seven games.
Zach Randolph PF | SAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Sacramento Kings have announced that Bogdan Bogdanovic is out with an ankle injury Friday, but the good news is that Zach Randolph will return to the lineup. He missed Wednesday's opener due to oral surgery, but is expected to start alongside Willie Cauley-Stein on Friday. Skal Labissiere started in place of Randolph on Wednesday and scored 12 points with 10 rebounds in 33 minutes. The return of Randolph means less minutes for Labissiere and Kosta Koufos . Expect Randolph to get his full minutes and be ready to roll against the Mavs.
Clayton Kershaw P | LAD |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Clayton Kershaw came out after the sixth inning of the Game 5 win over the Cubs on Thursday, and lines up to start Game 1 of the World Series on Tuesday in L.A. He'll be on regular rest, which is how he likes it. The Astros and Yankees are still fighting to determine who will represent the American League. On the Yankees squad, only one player has hit better than .235 (Matt Holliday ) against Kershaw, and the only player to homer off him is Chase Headley (1). Should Houston advance, Kershaw will have to contend with Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa , who have hit .400 and .333 respectively against him. No one on the Astros has ever homered off Kershaw.
Bogdan Bogdanovic SG | SAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Sacramento Kings have ruled out guard Bogdan Bogdanovic , for Friday's game against the Mavs, but it's not all bad news. He's dealing with an ankle injury, but was able to go through 3-on-3 work on Friday. The Kings don't want to rush anything, and will take it slow with Bogdanovic. He should be back into the rotation soon, and Buddy Hield will likely eat up a few additional minutes until Bogdanovic returns to the court.
Jose Altuve 2B | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Jose Altuve and the Astros will look to stay alive when they take on Yankee right-hander Luis Severino in Game 6 Friday night. Altuve has been the most consistent offensive force for the Astros this season and he has extended that to the postseason. Altuve has zero hits over his last 10 at-bats but is slashing .394/.500/.667 through 33 postseason at-bats. Altuve is still looking for his first run batted in during the ALCS and Game 6 is the perfect platform to put some points on the board.
Tom Brady QB | NE |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady said that he needs to improve the accuracy of his throws. In Week 6 in the narrow victory over the Jets, Brady was 20-for-38 for 257 yards, two touchdowns and one pick. He had also been limited in practices leading up to the game with a left shoulder injury, but he's off the injury report in Week 7 against the Falcons. Brady said his accuracy "comes down to technique and fundamentals and making sure everything is working." His red-zone efficiency has been a big problem, as the Patriots have just 14 touchdowns on 25 trips to the red zone this season. Brady is probably just being a little hard on himself, as he's second in the NFL in passing yards (1,959) to the Chiefs' Alex Smith . Brady once again be an elite QB1 option in what is expected to be another shootout with the Falcons this weekend.
Corey Seager SS | LAD |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Corey Seager will be ready to go for Game 1 of the World Series in Los Angeles on Tuesday, according to Dave Roberts. Seager was left off the NLCS roster as he dealt with a back sprain from Game 3 of the NLDS versus Arizona. The Dodgers did fine without him, starting Chris Taylor and Charlie Culberson in his place. Seager did not travel with the team to Chicago. He instead got an epidural and has been slowly ramping up his mobility. Look for him to slide back into second in the batting order. He's 3-for-11 in the postseason, with four walks, two RBI and a stolen base.
Justin Verlander P | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander will take the mound and try and stave off elimination as the Astros will face Yankees right-hander Luis Severino in Game 6 of the Championship Series on Friday. Verlander has been the best mid-season acquisition in baseball this season and is, perhaps, the most feared pitcher left in the playoffs. He's been at the top of his game, and has 2.04 ERA in three playoff appearances this year. Verlander shut down the Yankees earlier in the series, pitching a complete game with 13 strikeouts. Verlander will need to be at his best if the Astros want to extend their season.
Keenan Allen WR | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen (shoulder), who is listed as day-to-day after falling and hurting his shoulder in practice Thursday, is "very hopeful" that he'll play in Week 7 against the Broncos, according to head coach Anthony Lynn. Allen could be a game-time decision in an afternoon game, so you'll need to have alternatives available if you own Allen. But if he does play, even in a tough matchup, Allen should be considered a solid WR2.
Raul Neto PG | UTA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Utah Jazz have cleared point guard Raul Neto to play in Friday's game versus Minnesota. Neto was sidelined in Wednesday's season opener against the Pistons due to a left leg issue. Neto will serve as backup to Ricky Rubio , and Rodney Hood is also expected to return on Friday. This doesn't have too much fantasy impact right now besides the fact that Donovan Mitchell will see significantly less minutes with the return of Neto.
Joe Flacco QB | BAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Baltimore Ravens owners Steve Bisciotti defended quarterback Joe Flacco and the team's stagnant offense through six weeks. The owner also placed his faith in head coach John Harbaugh and general manager Ozzie Newsome. Flacco has always been a much better real-life QB than fantasy one, and this year he's been atrocious either way. The 32-year-old hasn't thrown for 300 yards once this year and hasn't even topped 250 yards while throwing four touchdowns to eight interceptions. In a tough matchup on the road against Minnesota in Week 7 with Jeremy Maclin (shoulder), Mike Wallace (back) and Benjamin Watson (knee) beat up, Flacco is a bottom-barrel QB2.
Jimmy Graham TE | SEA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Seattle Seahawks tight end Jimmy Graham has the fifth-most targets per game amongst TEs in the game this year, and he should be a prime target in Week 7 against the Giants. New York is allowing 13.87 fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends, the most allowed by any team in 2017. With Graham being targeted more than eight times per game over his last three games, he should have an opportunity to have his first big breakout game of the season. He'll also be looking to continue the TD streak he started against the Rams in Week 5. Graham should be a prime play this week.
Deandre Washington RB | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
With starter Marshawn Lynch getting ejected from the game in the first half, the Raiders turned to the duo of DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard to carry the mail in the second half, with Washington tallying nine carries for 33 yards, three catches for seven yards, and a rushing touchdown. Washington had trouble catching the ball throughout the night, as he is the less apt towards being a third-down 'back between the two, but did get the goalline carries, showing incredible determination on his touchdown run, breaking several tackles. If rumors of Lynch receiving a suspension for his antics prove true, Washington may be worth a pickup in deeper leagues.
Daniel Murphy 2B | WSH |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Nationals announced on Friday that Daniel Murphy had surgery on his right knee. He intends to rehab in the offseason and there's no word yet on whether or not it will affect his readiness for spring training. Murphy had a typically excellent season, though his strikeouts went up in the final two months. He slumped badly in the NLDS, however, getting only four hits in 19 AB. Three of those hits came in the final two games of the five-game series. Murphy turns 33 on April 1st and is in the last year of his contract with the Nationals. He's consistently among the worst fielders at his position, so a trade to an American League team that would strictly DH him isn't impossible to imagine should the Nationals fail to contend in 2018.
Jalen Richard RB | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
After Marshawn Lynch was ejected from the Raiders Week 7 win against Kansas City, the Raiders employed a two-man backfield of Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington . While Richard did not receive any goalline carries, he did lead the duo in yards, logging 31 yards on nine carries and 45 yards on four catches. While Richard only received one more touch than Washington, he out-gained him by 35 yards and is the far more effective pass-catching back. Should Marshawn Lynch be suspended for touching a ref during a scuffle, Richard is the more valuable 'back in PPR formats and would be worth a pickup.
Russell Wilson QB | SEA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson has had a week off to rest and recover from the first part of the season, and he's now got a golden opportunity against a weak pass defense. While the Giants are known for their strong defensive line, their secondary has been one of the most forgiving this season, allowing 11 passing touchdowns through the first six games. This is the second-most in the conference, and with Wilson's variety of passing options and floundering running game, he should be expected to take advantage. A shadow looms over him in the form of a nearly nonexistent offensive line, but if anyone can overcome such a burden once again, it's Wilson.
Chris Paul PG | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Houston Rockets will be without guard Chris Paul in Saturday's home opener against the Mavericks. Paul hurt his left knee in Tuesday's matchup against Golden State, and sat out in Wednesday's game versus the Kings. The fact the Rockets have already ruled out Paul is not a good sign. Hopefully the organization is just being cautious, but they should have a full medical report this weekend. Without Paul, guard Eric Gordon should see plenty of playing time in the Rockets lineup.
Devin Harris PG | DAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Dallas Mavericks guard Devin Harris is uncertain for Friday's game against the Kings due to personal reasons. His older brother was tragically killed in a car accident on Thursday, and it's understandable if Harris is unable to play on Friday. In 16 minutes on Wednesday, Harris scored 10 points with two assists in the loss to the Hawks. If Harris does not play on Friday expect Yogi Ferrell and J.J. Barea to see additional minutes.
Michael Crabtree WR | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
After being the only bright spot for the Raiders the first six weeks, Michael Crabtree finally got outshined. Crabtree finished fourth on the team in yards, but did catch the game winning touchdown, bringing his totals on the day to three catches for 24 yards and the aforementioned touchdown. Crabtree was a smaller part of the gameplan this week, especially so once Amari Cooper got hot early in the game, so his fantasy numbers took a temporary dip. However, Cooper blowing up is great news for Crabtree, as he will consistently get inferior coverage as teams begin doubling Cooper again. Crabtree will remain a solid WR2 going forward.
Dwayne Bacon SG | CHA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Charlotte Hornets are giving guard Dwayne Bacon another chance in the starting lineup on Friday. The team has announced that Bacon will start against the Hawks on Friday. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist remains out due to personal reasons which opens up a spot for Bacon in the starting lineup. In the season opener Bacon scored eight points, two triples, two assists, and two rebounds. He saw 20 minutes on the court, but didn't look great in the loss to the Pistons. The fact he's starting makes him an interesting fantasy option, but hard to trust Bacon until he proves he can be consistent.
Ezekiel Elliott RB | DAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The NFL reportedly has no interest in settling with Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott regarding his pending six-game suspension. Previous reports stated that the two sides had been "talking about" a settlement to finally bring the saga to an end, but more recent reports have shown that the NFL is confident that its punishment will be upheld, and therefore sees no need to settle. Elliott is likely to miss games this year, but it's becoming increasingly more difficult to predict when that will occur.
Derek Carr QB | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
After looking like the ghost of his former self for four weeks, Derek Carr , Franchise QB showed his face once again as the Raiders pulled off the upset against the Chiefs Week 7. Carr threw for 417 yards and three touchdowns, adding 15 yards on the ground as well. Carr was active in the pocket, and while he had a few throws get away from him, he was locked in during crunch time and threw three potential game winning touchdowns that were called back due to penalty. This seemed to be a big turning point for the Raiders and it can be expected that they return to 2016 form moving forward.
Graham Gano K | CAR |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Carolina Panthers place kicker Graham Gano is dealing with soreness in his knee but is expected to play in Week 7 against the Bears. Gano has made 15 of 16 field goal tries so far this season and has missed one of his 12 extra point tries. He's more of a low-end fantasy kicking option this weekend while being a little banged up on the road in Chicago.
Jared Cook TE | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
In the Raiders comeback win against the Chiefs Week 7, Jared Cook finally had a breakout game, logging six catches for 107 yards. Cook could have had a touchdown, but he was ruled down at the half yard line on a long bomb to potentially win the game, and as well had a high pass bounce off his hands in the endzone a few plays later. Regardless of Cook's inconsistency, he was a big part of the Raiders aerial attack and, assuming this was the Raiders' return to form, should remain a productive, bottom-half TE1 moving forward.
Breshad Perriman WR | BAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Breshad Perriman (concussion) missed practice all week and has been ruled out for Week 7 against the Vikings. Perriman has been far from fantasy relevance this season, catching only four passes for 26 yards in six games in 2017.
Amari Cooper WR | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
After I infamously demanded fantasy owners bench Oakland Raiders wide receiver Amari Cooper on Thursday night, Cooper went on a warpath, logging an 11-210-2 stat line -- career highs for both TDs and yards. Cooper did most of his damage in the first quarter, but remained active in the Raiders' pass game throughout, especially when drawing a DPI call late in the fourth quarter to get the Raiders in range to score. Cooper still struggled with drops and consistency, but when he was needed he came to the Raiders' rescue. The Raiders looked like the Raiders that were expected this year, and if they can continue, Cooper may finally live up to his draft spot.
Domantas Sabonis PF | IND |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Indiana Pacers have announced that center Myles Turner is out due to a concussion. Forward Domantas Sabonis will draw the start on Friday versus Portland with Turner unable to play. Sabonis scored 16 points, with seven rebounds, and one assist in the victory over the Nets on Wednesday. He's a good option tonight, but hard to trust him long-term especially once Turner returns to the court. Sabonis went 7-for 7 in 19 minutes on Wednesday, and if he can keep that up he'll be in for a big night.
Ted Ginn WR | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
New Orleans wide receiver Ted Ginn is coming off his best game as a Saint with 66 yards and a touchdown in Week 6. That doesn't assure he will repeat that performance, even against the shaky secondary of the Packers. Willie Snead is back, assuming his hamstring doesn't keep him out of action, and the Saints may not find themselves needing to pass as much with Aaron Rodgers on the shelf and inexperienced Brett Hundley taking his place. Ginn is a prototypical boom-bust play that may or may not return much on your investment. He's going to be TD-dependent for value, so only roll with him if you don't have safer options.
Michael Thomas WR | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas had a huge letdown in Week 6 against the Lions with just 11 yards on the day. That is unlikely to happen again this Sunday. Thomas will face a Packers team that is without an elite cornerback, which has given Thomas trouble this season, and that has allowed the 10th-most receiving yards to the WR position. Before Week 6, Thomas put up excellent PPR numbers in the previous three games against lesser secondaries and this should be no exception. Keep Thomas locked in as a high-end WR1.
George Kittle TE | SF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
After nearly scoring a touchdown in Week 6, George Kittle faces a Dallas defense that is currently 29th in DVOA according to Football Outsiders in Week 7. Kittle displayed his instant connection with college turned pro quarterback CJ Beathard seeing eight targets in Week 6. Expect him to be heavily involved this week in a game where the 49ers should be trailing. He is a low-end starting option this week in all formats.
Pierre Garcon WR | SF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Coming off a second double digit target week in a row, Pierre Garcon is looking for another target heavy performance against the Dallas Cowboys. The 49ers are a near touchdown underdog at home and facing the 23rd ranked DVOA pass defense according to Football Outsiders which should lead to production for Garcon. He will be a WR3 in standard formats and low-end WR2 in PPR formats heading into Week 7.
DeMarco Murray RB | TEN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Updating a previous report, Tennessee Titans running back DeMarco Murray (hamstring) said he'll be a game-time decision for Week 7 against the Browns. "We'll see how I feel. I'm going to get a good warmup in before the game and see how I feel and then make a decision from there," Murray said. He has been bothered by hamstring injuries since training camp, and the Titans will likely give more work to Derrick Henry in this game, regardless of whether Murray plays or not. Murray is shaping up as a risky RB3/flex play this weekend.
Josh Doctson WR | WAS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Washington Redskins wide receiver Josh Doctson has splashed in limited work to begin the season, scoring in two of his last three games and narrowly missing a third, game-winning TD against the Chiefs that would have made it three, despite playing only a 37.5% snap share over that span. Coming out of the team's Week 6 nail-biter against the 49ers, head coach Jay Gruden said the team will "actively expand" his role. While it's a bit too forward thinking to consider Doctson a safe play at Philadelphia in Week 7, Doctson has an opportunity to step into a featured role for a team that, in spite of tremendous QB play from Kirk Cousins , has gotten essentially nothing out of the WR position to this point. The 2016 first-rounder out of TCU should be high on the list of stash candidates in deeper leagues as he has legitimate top 20 WR upside going forward and it could start as early as this week, as no WR on the roster has yet distinguished himself as a true #1 option.
Alvin Kamara RB | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara continues to grow more involved with the offense and has a chance to do even more in Week 7. Kamara carried the ball 10 times for 75 last week, both new highs in his young NFL career. It's no coincidence these came the week that Adrian Peterson was dealt to Arizona and starting RB Mark Ingram knows it. "With A.D. going to AZ, having a chance to prove what he has to do, it was just a chance for me and A.K. to step up and prove that we can carry this run game and be explosive play-makers for this team." With a matchup against a Green Bay Packers team reeling from injuries, Kamara could see even more run and should be starting in all PPR leagues.
Stefon Diggs WR | MIN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Stefon Diggs (groin) has been ruled out for Week 7 against the Ravens. It's his second straight absence, and he missed a full week of practice. Adam Thielen was targeted over 10 times last week and should see another heavy workload, making him a must-start against Baltimore. Tight end Kyle Rudolph 's outlook also improves as a strong TE1.
Michael Floyd WR | MIN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Michael Floyd (hamstring) returned to a limited practice Friday but is questionable for Week 7 against the Ravens. It looks like Floyd has a good chance to play after missing practice the previous two days. However, even with Stefon Diggs (groin) out again, Floyd is a desperation dart throw as a flex in deeper leagues. He's caught just two passes for 24 yards in his two games so far this year.
Devante Parker WR | MIA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Updating an earlier report, Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker has appeared on the team's injury report as doubtful for this Sunday. Parker hasn't shown enough improvement in his sprained ankle to be a full go for Week 7. The team will incorporate Jakeem Grant into the receiving corps and lean on Jarvis Landry and Kenny Stills more. Make sure Parker is on your bench if he isn't already.
Carlos Hyde RB | SF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Coming off a two-touchdown week, San Francisco 49ers running back Carlos Hyde is looking for more of the same in Week 7 at home against the Cowboys. The Cowboys currently are dead last in DVOA against the run according to Football Outsiders, so Hyde should be able to be effective in his carries on Sunday. If the game script goes sour for the 49ers, Hyde has seen six targets in four out of his six games this season. He is a solid RB2 in all formats this week with upside for more.
Paul Perkins RB | NYG |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (ribs) and defensive end Olivier Vernon (ankle) have both been ruled out for Week 7 against the Seahawks. Perkins has now missed two straight games and has fallen all the way to the bottom of the running back depth chart due to his injuries and poor performance. He can be left to the waiver wire. Vernon continues to be bothered by his ankle injury, and his continued absence is bad news for New York's overall production on defense.
Jamison Crowder WR | WAS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Washington Redskins wide receiver Jamison Crowder is now riding an ignominious streak of 10 straight games of 52 yards or fewer, and 9 straight without reaching the endzone. In a week that opened with a monster slump-buster performance from much-maligned Amari Cooper , we're reminded never to say never, but it's hard to envision a circumstance where Crowder owners will be anxious to get him into the lineup in Week 7, even in an apparently good matchup against an Eagles team surrendering the fifth most points to opposing WRs. Crowder has dealt with injuries to his hip and hamstring during the early part of the season and one has to wonder if he's physically right. In any case, he should be well off of fantasy radars until we see some signs of life.
Charles Clay TE | BUF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Buffalo Bills tight end Charles Clay (knee) could return to play this season after suffering a serious knee injury two weeks ago, according to head coach Sean McDermott. There remains no timetable for Clay's return, though, but he might be worth picking up and stashing in deeper leagues if you're desperate at the tight end position. With Clay out, Jordan Matthews (thumb) looks likely to return this week as Buffalo's top receiving threat.
Drew Brees QB | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees is always a must-start for fantasy owners and this week is no different. The Green Bay Packers have numerous injuries on defense, especially in the secondary, leading some to rank Brees as the top QB play of Week 7. His passing numbers have gone down the last two weeks as his defense has stepped up, but he's still playing as efficiently as ever. New Orleans ranks third in offensive DVOA, while Brees is fourth in passer rating and adjusted net yards per attempt. Brees should find no problem carving up the Pack on Sunday. The only concern might be game flow, if Brett Hundley fails to generate offense and allows the Saints to get ahead early. As of right now, that shouldn't be a mitigating factor. Brees should be a lock for top 10 QB numbers, if not much higher.
Mark Ingram RB | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram enjoyed his best game of the season by far in Week 6, rushing for 114 yards and two touchdowns. With the ailing Green Bay Packers on deck and the spectre of Adrian Peterson gone, Ingram could be considered a top 10 RB play. He will be highly motivated this week for another reason - he hasn't had the best memories at Lambeau Field in his career. In the first game of his career, Ingram was held to 40 yards and stuffed on a potential game-tying touchdown at the end of the fourth quarter. "I definitely want to go back to Lambeau and have a success story as opposed to the last couple times I've been there," Ingram said. He could very well get that success story against a Packers defense ranked 24th against the run.
Terrelle Pryor WR | WAS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Washington Redskins wide receiver Terrelle Pryor will be facing a Philadelphia defense that is surrendering the fifth most points to fantasy WRs on Monday night. Though he hasn't surpassed three catches in any of his past four games, he did catch 6 of 11 balls thrown his way for 66 yards against these same Eagles in Week 1. It's hard to argue that he's even a trustworthy flex play at this point, but the matchup is right and Kirk Cousins is playing brilliant football. It's hard to imagine the Redskins continuing to get essentially nothing out of their perimeter WRs and Pryor is still playing the vast majority of snaps. Although it will take more faith than most fantasy owners have at this point, Pryor is a dark-horse for a big Week 7 game.
Sterling Shepard WR | NYG |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 7 against the Seahawks. Shepard sat out in Week 6 but looks to be ready to return in a tough matchup against Seattle. However, with expected heavy volume if he suits up as the team's No. 1 receiver, he'll be in consideration as a WR3.
Sam Bradford QB | MIN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer thinks quarterback Sam Bradford (knee) will play again this year. Bradford has played in only one full game because of his knee issues, and that was the season opener. While he could play again this year, he remains without a timetable for a return and didn't practice at all this week. That's bad news for him with Teddy Bridgewater (knee) returning to practice this week and games possibly in the near future. Bradford deserves to be on the waiver wire in all leagues and may never get the starting gig back in Minnesota.
Robert Turbin RB | IND |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Kevin Bowen of 1070thefan reports that Indianapolis Colts running back Robert Turbin (arm) will seek a second opinion on the severity of an elbow injury he suffered back in Week 6 and will not be immediately placed on the team's injured reserve list. Though there might be a chance for Turbin to return late in the season, he is clearly not going to be able to hit the field for the foreseeable future. Rookie running back Marlon Mack will get more opportunities to make up for the snaps left in Turbin's wake and should be owned in most leagues.
Chris Thompson RB | WAS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Washington Redskins running back Chris Thompson should be fired up as an RB2 in PPR formats and a strong flex in standard formats, as he continues to be quarterback Kirk Cousins 's go-to safety valve through the early part of the season. In Week 1's loss, Thompson posted four catches for 52 yards and a touchdown against this same defense. Currently pacing for 1,600-plus yards from scrimmage and double digit TDs, some regression is certainly coming, but he's impossible to bench in any format with as hot as he has been to this point.
Anibal Sanchez P | DET |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
The Detroit Tigers will decline starting pitcher Anibal Sanchez 's $16 million option for the 2018 season, according to general manager Al Avila. It's really a no-brainer after the veteran right-hander pitched to an ugly 3-7 record, 6.41 ERA and 1.59 WHIP in 105 1/3 innings (17 starts). He's likely to have to accept a minor league deal with another club this winter and won't be guaranteed any type of starting gig given his struggles in recent years.
Andre Ellington RB | ARI |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Cardinals running back Andre Ellington (quadricep) logged in his second practice absence on Friday and has been given the questionable tag for the weekend's game against the Rams. Given the rise of Adrian Peterson in the Cardinals backfield, it is safe to say that even if Ellington suits up he should be left on the majority of benches and is nothing more than a shaky flex play in deep PPR leagues.
Kelvin Benjamin WR | CAR |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin (knee) practiced in full Friday but is listed as questionable for Week 7 against the Bears. The fact that Benjamin returned to a full practice after missing the two previous days is great news, but he still may be a game-time decision. We'd ultimately expect him to play, but he might not be 100 percent, which could affect his production against a tough Bears defense. Put Benjamin on the WR2/3 borderline and temper expectations.
Kirk Cousins QB | WAS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins will face a Philadelphia Eagles defense that is surrendering the 12th most fantasy points to opposing QBs. For the third straight year, Kirk struggled out of the gate with finishes of QB22 and QB24 in his first two games, but he has rebounded nicely per usual, with finishes of QB6, QB12, and QB1 since. He's an easy QB1 play this week against the Eagles still banged-up secondary.
Jarvis Landry WR | MIA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jarvis Landry admitted that he was motivated to beat a New York Jets team that beat them just a month ago. According to Landry, he's ready to "put something better on tape and come out with a W." Landry was targeted 11 times in that September contest, but only caught six of those passes for 48 yards as the team failed to score any points until the last play of the game. Landry will keep seeing a high volume of passes his way, especially if DeVante Parker remains out. Although the Dolphins' offense has been scary bad at times, Landry is averaging a career-high 7.6 receptions per game. He will continue to have a safe floor for PPR owners and should be started this week.
Jay Cutler QB | MIA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Miami Dolphins quarterback Jay Cutler hasn't looked impressive in his early tenure as Ryan Tannehill 's replacement, but he's quietly improving. After leading the team to a comeback victory against the Falcons, Cutler now faces the New York Jets for a second time. He was mediocre in their Week 3 matchup, throwing for 220 yards, one touchdown and one interception. On the season, he has a 61.6% completion rate, averages 171.4 yards per game and owns a 5:4 TD:INT ratio. While he isn't offering enough upside to be a fantasy factor, he is proving to be unflappable despite tough circumstances. As offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen relayed, "He's been relaxed and he just keeps grinding in some tough situations." Cutler is merely a low-end QB2 in superflex leagues this week.
Kendall Wright WR | CHI |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Chicago Bears wide receiver Kendall Wright saw just 25 of the team's 80 offensive snaps in Week 6, while Tanner Gentry was in on 76 of 80 snaps, and Tre McBride saw 58 snaps. Offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains said it was by design. "But he's a guy in my opinion who's better when he doesn't play 75 snaps, when he gets to play in that 25-35 range and he's fresh and can bring the energy and juice like he did the last third down," Loggains said. If you own Wright, you should consider looking elsewhere, as that kind of limited snap count just won't produce positive fantasy returns on a consistent basis. Gentry and McBride are playing on the outside now, with Gentry being an attractive waiver wire stash.
Jay Ajayi RB | MIA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Miami Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi (knee) was three years removed from an ACL repair in his right knee when he went to the NFL, and there was concern that he would need constant treatment and attention to keep him on the field. He's continued to have chronic soreness in the knee while in the NFL, and the Dolphins often hold him out of practice on Thursdays so he can receive rest and treatment. It hasn't affected him on the ground -- Ajayi is averaging 20.4 touches per game and ranks seventh in overall rushing with 391 yards -- but it is affecting his development as a pass catcher. "It is kind of an issue (because) he doesn't practice every single day,'' offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen said. "So he probably needs the extra reps in the passing game, but when you get him out there you want to get your runs called." Ajayi has caught only seven of the 12 passes he's seen this year and was 0-for-3 in the Week 6 win over Atlanta. The young running back remains on the RB1 line, but his all-around game has suffered a bit because of his chronic knee issues, so he's more of a low-end RB1 than an elite one.
Ameer Abdullah RB | DET |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Ameer Abdullah 's disappointing season thus far can be attributed largely to the Lions poor offensive line. Abdullah ranks fourth in the NFL in yards after contact at 2.97. However, he is only 29th in the league in yards per carry, coming in at 3.8. The Lions are leading the league in "stuffed runs" aka running plays where the back is hit in the backfield. Abdullah has done his part to stay on his feet, but repeatedly getting hit behind the line of scrimmage has made it tough for him to rack up big yardage. Help may be coming however, as Lions tackle Taylor Decker is nearing a return. He is expected back in early November and will replace Greg Robinson, who has struggled heavily in his place. It remains to be seen how big of an impact Decker will have, but any improvement to the offensive line should help Abdullah going forward.
Leonard Fournette RB | JAX |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Jacksonville Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (ankle) is not practicing for the third straight day Friday. That's bad news for Fournette after his ankle injury was believed to be minor following Sunday's game. That hasn't been the case this week, and it's looking more likely that he'll sit out in Week 7 in favor of backup Chris Ivory . Start making backup plans if you own the impressive rookie. If Ivory is out there on your waiver wire, scoop him up immediately. He could be a decent flex play against the Colts defense if he sees the majority of backfield touches.
Jameis Winston QB | TB |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (shoulder) will start in Week 7 against the Bills, according to head coach Dirk Koetter. Winston did some throwing Friday and apparently looked good enough for the Bucs to be confident about him. It's not a ringing endorsement, however, and Winston remains a shaky low-end QB1 in this game, although you should feel a little more comfortable using his pass-game targets like Mike Evans , DeSean Jackson and Cameron Brate .
Jaylen Brown PF | BOS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Boston Celtics shooting guard Jaylen Brown (ankle) is listed as questionable for the matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. Brown injured the ankle during the loss to the Milwaukee Bucks and was seen with it taped leaving the arena afterwards. With tweener guard Marcus Smart (ankles) unlikely to play, shooting guard Terry Rozier , who had 15 points, seven boards, six assists and two steals off the bench on Wednesday, could see an increased role on Friday night.
Myles Turner PF | IND |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (neck) is unlikely to play on Friday night against the Portland Trail Blazers. Though nothing as of yet has indicated that the injury is serious, it is severe enough to keep him out of the lineup, though likely as a precautionary measure. If he is indeed doesn't play, power forward Domantas Sabonis , who had 16 points and seven boards against Brooklyn on Wednesday night, will draw the start.
Marcus Smart PG | BOS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/20/17 11:09pm
Boston Celtics tweener guard Marcus Smart (ankles) will likely not play on Friday night against the Philadelphia 76ers, according to head coach Brad Stevens. Smart injured both ankles in the loss to the Milwaukee Bucks and did not participate in shootarounds on Friday Morning as a result. The severity of the injury is unknown at this time but it's obviously not good news for a Celtics team that is dealing with a handful of injuries already this season. With Jaylen Brown (ankle) also uncertain to play, the team may lean more heavily on shooting guard Terry Rozier , who had 15 points, seven boards and six assists off the bench on Wednesday night.
Coming off a quiet performance against the Jazz, look for a full 180 against a Chicago Bulls team that struggles against opposing centers. Check out daily fantasy expert Ricky Sanders’ recommended plays to help you fill out your roster for today’s NBA contests.
Guards:
Rajon Rondo, Kings, $14,600 – Coming off of three sub-par performances, Rajon Rondo’s price has now dipped below $15,000 and it’s time to pounce once again. FantasyDraft awards a bonus for double-doubles and Rondo is the NBA’s leaders in assists per game (11.6). Unsurprisingly, his recent cold streak is on the hinges of three straight games failing to reach double-digit assists…but just barely (eight, seven and nine respectively over the past three games). A matchup against the Nets should spark his production once again because they allow the fourth most fantasy points to opposing point guards (PGs). In the team’s one prior meeting this season, Rondo dropped a triple-double with 23 points (PTS), 10 rebounds (REB), 14 assists (AST) and even two steals (STL). There are so many ways Rondo can contribute to a box score and he should have no issue putting together another fantastic line as the Kings’ implied total is the second highest on the slate.
Evan Turner, Celtics, $9,600 – If you haven’t been following the rotation closely, it’s easy to have allowed Evan Turner’s recent consistency to fall through the cracks. Turner is one of those unexciting players who rarely score 20 PTS but he fills up the box score somewhat similarly to Rondo. Rebounding is Turner’s specialty as he ranks 13th among guards with 4.5 rebounds per game (RPG) despite only playing 26.9 minutes per game (MPG). Recently his minutes have been up as he has surpassed 27 minutes in four of his last six games and has played at least 25 in each of his last seven games. It seems Coach Brad Stevens likes the versatility he brings and has decided he is a staple in the rotation for the moment. While the matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers is not incredibly favorable, the Celtics will need to score to compete and Turner has scored double-digits in eight of his last nine games. The Celtics will also need to find ways to compete on the boards against a team with Kevin Love and Tristan Thompson and Turner can provide a sneaky source of rebounds. For those reasons, I think Turner may play nearly 30 minutes which should be plenty of time to hit value at his mid-tier price. I would caution he is a better fit for tournaments than cash games due to past volatility issues.
Wayne Ellington, Nets, $8,100 – After firing Coach Lionel Hollins, the Nets turned to Tony Brown who immediately switched up the rotation. His first order of business was inserting Wayne Ellington into the starting lineup and Ellington has not looked back since the move. While Ellington’s price now sits at the most expensive it has been all season, he has now scored double-digits in four consecutive games. In fact, he has eclipsed the 20 fantasy point plateau in four of his last six games which would equate to 2.5x value as-is. However, I’m expecting more out of Ellington against a Sacramento Kings team that allows the third most fantasy points to opposing shooting guards (SGs) and plays the fastest brand of basketball. With the teams running and struggling to defend the wing, Ellington should score in the mid-to-high teens of real points and possibly top 3x value. If needing to roster superstars, such as the one coming off, he clears a lot of salary to make it possible while providing serious upside as well. Assuming no other value emerges on the slate (which is usually a bad assumption), he’s by far the best punt play of the night.
Forwards/Centers:
DeMarcus Cousins, Kings, $20,200 – Oh man…DeMarcus Cousins versus one of the softest big men in the game is quite the mismatch. In the first meeting all Cousins did was torch Brook Lopez for 40 PTS, 13 REB and one AST (61.75 fantasy points). WHEW. Lopez is a notoriously weak rebounder which means Cousins could rack up an unusually large amount of them and he averages 11.3 per game. Furthermore Cousins has stepped his game up to a whole new level since the last time they met; he averaged 31.5 points per game (PPG) including 1.3 three-pointers (3PM), 12.0 rebounds per game (RPG), 3.1 assists per game (APG), 1.6 steals per game (SPG) and 1.3 blocks per game (BPG) in 15 January games. In other words he averaged a whopping 56.6 fantasy points for a whole month. Again the Kings are projected to score around 109 points so Cousins is assuredly going to need to dominate for the projection to come true. There is no other superstar I’d rather roster regardless of how much cheaper they are priced because his ceiling literally may be 15 fantasy points higher than the next player.
Marcin Gortat, Wizards, $12,000 – I found it a little odd that 76ers/Wizards carried a projected higher total than Nets/Kings but not because the Wizards are involved. My feeling was the odds-makers wouldn’t give Philadelphia credit to stick around with a much better team but Washington only opened as a nine point favorite. Of course John Wall is the first guy you think of when you think Wizards but Marcin Gortat is the one with the superb history against this opponent. In four games last season, Gortat scored at least 33.5 fantasy points in three of the four games and topped 42 fantasy points in each of the final two meetings. Last season it was a bit of a worry opponents would go small against Philadelphia because Nerlens Noel was their only true center and they’d play small a lot without him. This season, the 76ers have two centers and they like to scatter their minutes so Gortat has no reason to play less than his normal allotment of minutes…and actually could play more. Gortat’s minutes have been slightly down recently with the team getting healthier but that has also led to a price drop. He should make efficient use of his 30-ish minutes on Friday and prove to be a useful mid-tier option
Nikola Jokic, Nuggets, $10,800 – Okay so Gortat is a ho-hum mid-tier option who will move the chains and likely provide value but Nikola Jokic is an exciting option that can annihilate value. World, meet Jokic who quietly is becoming an upper-echelon NBA player. Expectations at the beginning of the season were Jusuf Nurkic would regain his starting job and play a majority of the minutes when he returned due to injury but Jokic is simply better. While Nurkic is a great defender, Jokic is the whole package. Over the past seven games, Jokic has double-doubled four times, stolen at least a pass in all but one game and registered at least three AST in all but one game. He is coming off of a down game in Utah but just about every center suffers the same fate in slow-paced affairs against Rudy Gobert. On Friday, Jokic will square off against a Bulls team allowing the seventh most fantasy points to opposing centers (Cs) and the third most rebounds. There is a chance the Bulls are without Jimmy Butler and Pau Gasol although I do expect both to suit up. Regardless, Jokic should get back to his double-double ways and continue to provide sharp DFS players a distinct advantage over the competition. Simply put, he is my favorite play on the entire slate.
