Breaking: Mitchell Tops Power Rankings Despite Missing Game, Jokic and SGA Shine in Postseason Semi-Finals; DFS Values Revealed
In a thrilling week of NBA playoffs, Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers topped the power rankings, despite missing most of Game 4 due to an ankle injury. Mitchell averaged an impressive 41.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 2.0 steals in the first three games against the New York Knicks. However, the Cavaliers find themselves on the brink of elimination going into Game 5.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets led the fantasy heap, even with subpar shooting, thanks to a trio of double-doubles and three performances of 20 points or more in their series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The series stands tied at 2-2, setting up a pivotal Game 5.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from the Thunder also put up impressive numbers, averaging 27.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, 7.3 assists, and 1.5 steals across Games 1-4, despite struggling from behind the arc. The series against the Nuggets is proving to be tougher than expected.
Anthony Edwards and Jayson Tatum, respectively from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Boston Celtics, rounded out the top five, with Edwards bouncing back from a shooting slump to average 46.3% from the field and 38.9% from three in Games 2 and 3 against the Warriors. Tatum has been a leader for the Celtics, despite Shooting below 33% from the field.
In DFS values, Derrick White (Celtics), Myles Turner (Pacers), Aaron Gordon (Nuggets), Mikal Bridges (Knicks), and Jonathan Kuminga (Warriors) emerged as top considerations, delivering consistent fantasy performances at modest salaries.
Breaking News: Top Contributors Shaping the Postseason Landscape
The NBA playoffs are heating up, with thrilling finishes and standout performances painting an exciting picture of what’s to come. Here’s a rundown of the top five players making the most impact and five DFS value plays you shouldn’t overlook.
Pace-Setting Performances
1. Nikola Jokić, Nuggets
The Joker is playing like, well, himself. Despite an off shooting stretch, he’s delivering monster games, including a 42-point, 22-rebound effort in Game 1 against the Thunder. His triple-double threat and high floor make him a must-own in fantasy leagues.
2. Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers
Mitchell is having a sensational postseason, averaging an impressive 32.7 points per game entering Game 5 against the Knicks. Despite missing most of Game 4 due to an ankle injury, he still placed second in our power rankings. If he’s healthy, he’s a force to be reckoned with.
3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder
SGA continues to put up MVP-level numbers, even in a tough series against the Nuggets. His 27.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game in the series show he’s a true triple threat on offense. His defensive effort, with 1.5 steals per game, rounds out an incredible fantasy package.
4. Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves
Edwards is bouncing back from a shooting slump, putting up a combined 52 points in Games 2 and 3 against the Warriors. His 14 rebounds in Game 1 and three steals in Game 3 show he’s not just a scorer but a complete player.
5. Jayson Tatum, Celtics
Tatum might not be shooting at his usual high clips, but his all-around impact is undeniable. He’s averaged a near-triple-double against the Knicks, with 22.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, making him a valuable play in DFS contests.
DFS Value Plays: Under-the-Radar Contributors
Derrick White, Celtics
White might not be the sexiest pick, but he’s been consistent, scoring at least 17 points in each of the first three games against the Knicks. His 38.5 fantasy points per game last week show he’s a solid DFS value play.
Myles Turner, Pacers
Turner is a versatile big man who’s been putting up monster numbers against the Hawks. He’s averaging 19.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 2.7 blocks while shooting an absurd 63.6% from three in Games 2-4.
Aaron Gordon, Nuggets
Gordon’s been a key contributor in the Nuggets’ second-round series against the Thunder. He’s averaging 17.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists while shooting 54.5% from three. His offensive rebounding has been particularly crucial for Denver.
Mikal Bridges, Knicks
Bridges has been a defensive stalwart for the Knicks, averaging 4.7 assists and 2.7 steals per game in the series against the Celtics. His 5.3 rebounds per game show he’s a complete player who’s a solid DFS play, even if he’s not setting the world on fire offensively.
Jonathan Kuminga, Warriors
With Stephen Curry sidelined, Kuminga has stepped up, averaging 24.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.0 blocks off the bench in Games 2 and 3 against the Timberwolves. If he keeps this up, he’ll be a key part of Golden State’s title defense.
Did you know?
Nikola Jokić is the first center to average at least 27 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists in a playoff series since Wilt Chamberlain in 1964.
Pro Tip
When evaluating DFS plays, consider a player’s usage rate and floor percentage. Players with high usage rates and floor percentages tend to perform well in DFS contests.
Reader Question: Who do you think is the most underrated DFS value play this postseason?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
As the postseason heats up, keep an eye on these players and DFS value plays. They’re shaping the landscape of the NBA playoffs and could be key to your fantasy and DFS success. Happy playoffs!