There’s just six games tonight, but there are still some injury situations potentially creating cheap value plays. I dive in here.
Anfernee Simons, PG/SG, POR at TOR ($4,200)
For the second straight game, the Portland Trail Blazers could be without C.J. McCollum. He was a late scratch in their last game because of an illness and his absence led to a massive for Simons. Despite coming off the bench, Portland played him 34 minutes and he scored 29.5 DKFP. As long as McCollum is out, Simons figures to play a ton of minutes even if coming off the bench.
Sekou Doumbouya, SF/PF, DET at CLE ($4,600)
The Detroit Pistons newest starter is their first-round pick in the draft. Since Blake Griffin is rumored to be looking into season-ending knee surgery, Doumbouya could be starting for the rest of the season. Since moving into the starting unit, the results have been mixed for the rookie, which should be expected, however, he’s shown plenty of upside. Dr. Doum is averaging 28.83 DKFP in the starting unit and has scored as many as 40 DKFP.
John Henson, C, CLE vs. DET ($4,400)
Henson is coming off his first start of the season. It was a solid outing and he scored 26.75 DKPF in 23 minutes. The Cavaliers were dealing with injuries, forcing Henson into a bigger than normal role and that might be an issue again tonight. Larry Nance remains out with knee soreness while Tristan Thompson is questionable to play with an illness. If both are out, Henson could draw another start. Since the Pistons have one of the bigger frontcourts in the NBA now that Doumbouya is starting, the Cavs could need Henson’s size to match up.
Frank Ntilikina, PG/SG, NYK at LAL ($3,400)
The New York Knicks point guard situation remains a mess. Elfrid Payton is dealing with a personal issue, which may cause him to sit out tonight and Dennis Smith Jr. has missed multiple games because of a hamstring injury. Both of them are questionable. If neither can play, Ntilikina is in line to take over at point guard without anybody else to turn to. In a similar situation, he starting last game against the Clippers and played 28 minutes. Even though a blowout seems fairly likely, it shouldn’t impact Ntilikina’s playing time. Without other healthy point guards he would probably play in garbage time even if he starts.
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