The Shot Dude: Tickling the Twine
As we all know, when a hoopster tickles the twine, he hit nothing but net.
Your favorite Shot Dude is about to tickle you with nothing but great recommendations for a winning NBA fantasy team.
Even though the NFL will take center stage this evening, there are four NBA games for us to examine today. You can always check out the matchups for any sport with the help of the trusted Bovada data tool located on our Home page:
Make your way over to FanDuel when you're through here and enter a game or two; they really are the best in the business.
Point Guards
Emmanuel Mudiay, Denver ($5400) ... is coming off a 35.5 fantasy point, 39-minute performance against Chicago two days ago. This 19-year old rookie has really impressed and has dutifully been rewarded with at least 30 minutes in 8 of his last 10 games. Mudiay will face the 15th-ranked defense of the Knicks today, so look for him to score in the 24-26 fantasy point range.
Chris Paul, Los Angeles Clippers ($9600) ... puts up just under 15 shots a game, but his 9.4 assist average per game is what will always give your fantasy lineup a boost. Paul is one of the NBA's matchup-proof players, so even though Miami has one of the tougher defenses, I like for him to end the day at 40-42 fantasy points.
Shooting Guards
Arron Afflalo, New York ($5100) ... has played 40 minutes or more in three consecutive games. Dude's been the veteran leader, what with Carmelo Anthony in and out of the lineup due to injury. Since the Nuggies are 27th in the league at defending opposing shooting guards, I like Afflalo's chances at a 23-25 point fantasy game today.
Victor Oladipo, Orlando ($6500) ... has been restored to high minute totals with at least 35 in three straight games. Since Oladipo holds averages of 12.5 shots and 14.4 points a game, he will always be one of the Magic's go-to guys. Dude gets home court advantage against Atlanta and their 21st-ranked defense against shooting guards, so look for him to get 28-30 fantasy points.
Small Forwards
Omri Casspi, Sacramento ($5100) ... has been asked to contribute more scoring punch with Rudy Gay sidelined with various ailments this season. There's a good chance Gay will be out again today. Look for Casspi to burn Boston's 22nd-ranked defense against small forwards more than a few times in this one. I put his fantasy total at 24-26 points.
Kent Bazemore, Atlanta ($5100) ... has not only produced double-digit scoring in 7 of his last 10 games, but averages almost 29 minutes of court time per game. Dude will square off against Orlando's 21st-ranked defense against small forwards. When the final buzzer sounds, look for him to have piled up 24-26 fantasy points.
Power Forwards
Aaron Gordon, Orlando ($4900) ... still has an affordable salary, even though he's exceeded fantasy value in 4 of his last 6 games. It's hard to deny minutes to a guy who exhibits high energy on the court. Gordon took advantage of Atlanta for 32.9 fantasy points back on Mon 18 Jan. Although I don't see a repeat of that great showing, I do like him to make value and be in the 25-27 fantasy point range.
Kristaps Porzingis, New York ($6400) ... just stepped up against a tough Memphis defense for a 17-point, 10-rebound, 6-block explosion two days ago. This rookie has had ups and downs but is clearly a key to the future of this franchise. Denver has consistently shown vulnerability in their interior this season, ranking 23rd against power forwards. My best guess is that Porzingis follows up his 38 fantasy point outburst with a 30-32 fantasy point game today.
Center
DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento ($11,100) ... plays a position you might want to pay down for today, but not me! This dude is a monster to defend, and I just don't see anyone on the Boston back line being able to contain him. The Celtics currently rank 18th in defending centers. Cousins has registered 52 fantasy points or more in 7 of his last 9 games and seems to be a lock for 48-50 today.
Your favorite Shot Dude hopes you do nothing but win some NBA fantasy cash and enjoy the Super Bowl today.
I would be tickled pink if you go out and give it your best shot!
You can follow me on twitter@fsofia8.