The postseason’s sixth week showcased exciting Conference Finals, with two series currently holding a 2-1 standing, both unfolding in unexpected manners. The Pacers secured two road upsets, followed by a thrilling comeback from the Knicks, and a staggering defeat inflicted on the Thunder by the Timberwolves in Game 3, all highlighting impressive individual performances.
As is routine, we’ll explore the top five fantasy contributors from the remaining four teams, along with five players who generally offer affordable options in DFS contests, making them worth a look as the series progress.
#1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder
Last Week: 47.8 FP/G
With Nikola Jokić out of the postseason, the newly crowned MVP claims the top position this week. Despite a mere 28-minute appearance in a shocking Game 3 loss, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 27.7 points, 7.7 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.0 steals across the series’ first three games. His scoring remained steady, partly due to averaging 11 free-throw attempts per game at an 84.8% success rate, despite shooting only 42.6% overall.
#2. Tyrese Haliburton, Pacers
Last Week: 46.6 FP/G
Haliburton’s efforts almost led the Pacers to a 3-0 series lead. He started strong with a 31-point game at Madison Square Garden but faced a tougher time in Game 2, registering only 14 points, yet still managed 11 assists and eight rebounds. In Game 3, he showcased his versatility with a balanced line of 20 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and three steals, proving instrumental despite a loss.
#3. Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves
Last Week: 46.3 FP/G
Struggling earlier against the Thunder, Edwards rebounded in Games 2 and 3, averaging 31.0 points on 55.8% shooting. Initially unremarkable in Game 1, he pulled down nine rebounds in all three games, contributing six assists in the last two. His performance has been a key factor for Minnesota’s hopes in the Western Conference.
#4. Jalen Brunson, Knicks
Last Week: 41.6 FP/G
Brunson experienced interesting dynamics in the series, shining during New York’s unfortunate losses and facing foul trouble in the comeback during Game 3. He averaged 39.5 points, 8.0 assists, and 2.0 rebounds across Games 1 and 2 but saw his performance diminish in Game 3 with just 23 points amidst foul issues, highlighting his recent inconsistency.
#5. Karl-Anthony Towns, Knicks
Last Week: 40.8 FP/G
Like Brunson, Towns faced foul challenges but still led New York’s comeback with a robust performance of 24 points and 15 rebounds in Game 3. He had initiated the series strongly with a double-double of 35 points and 12 rebounds in Game 1, effectively leveraging his free-throw opportunities.
DFS Value Plays to Consider
Mikal Bridges, Knicks
Last Week: 32.0 FP/G
Bridges has been providing solid numbers, averaging 17.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.7 steals despite inconsistent shooting.
Aaron Nesmith, Pacers
Last Week: 30.9 FP/G
After a quiet Game 3 due to an ankle issue, Nesmith’s prior 30-point effort reinforces his value as a DFS option.
Jaden McDaniels, Timberwolves
Last Week: 25.8 FP/G
McDaniels’ scoring has fluctuated, yet his strong shooting and contributions in rebounds and assists make him a noteworthy mid-salary choice.
Naz Reid, Timberwolves
Last Week: 23.9 FP/G
Despite shooting challenges, Reid has consistently contributed with rebounds, offsetting his scoring slump.
Andrew Nembhard, Pacers
Last Week: 21.9 FP/G
Nembhard remains a complementary piece but effectively utilizes his opportunities, averaging solid stats in this series.
