Counterattack - No Teague Left Behind
Here are the best contrarian plays for Monday, March 28:
PG Jeff Teague, Hawks (at Bulls)
Teague is an unexciting but functional point guard. Averages of 15 points and six assists aren't overly appealing in fantasy. Combine them with a road game against Chicago and many DFS players will fade the Atlanta point guard.
Though Chicago's defense ranks well in numerous defensive categories, the post-All-Star-break Bulls have fallen apart on the defensive end. Since the break, Chicago has surrendered over 100 points in 18 of 20 games as it limps to the finish without Joakim Noah and a battered Pau Gasol.
Though Teague may not be a sexy choice, he has the potential to score over 20 points in this matchup, while also dishing out between six to 10 assists. At an economical salary, Teague has a nice cash game floor with a dash of tournament upside.
SF Al-Farouq Aminu, Trail Blazers (vs. Kings)
As a relative unknown to the masses of NBA followers, Aminu should fly under-the-radar in DFS circles. Seasonal averages of 9.8 points and 6.1 rebounds wont impress anyone though they do hint at the potential for a double-double.
The biggest factor in selecting Aminu should be his recent play. Aminu has scored in double-digits in three of his last four, while also registering one double-double in that span. Most recently, he posted 20 points and snagged eight rebounds against Philadelphia. Furthermore, Aminu has played 35 minutes in three of his last four games.
In a matchup against the DeMarcus Cousins-less Sacramento Kings, Aminu should have no trouble cracking double-digit points and stands an increased chance at securing double-digit rebounds.
PF Kenneth Faried, Nuggets (vs. Mavericks)
Faried has missed six games in a row despite being available for Denver's past two contests. Though he enters Monday listed as questionable with a back issue, he is expected to be available once again. Whether he actually hits the floor is anyone's guess.
If Faried does play, he will draw a fantastic matchup against a Dallas team surrendering 104.2 points per game and sitting in the bottom third of major rebounding categories. Even if 'The Manimal' was limited to between 20 and 25 minutes, a double-double still seems reasonable given the matchup.
If there is any lingering doubt due to the hindrance of a minutes restriction, the fact that Faried has double-doubled in seven straight games where he has played at least 20 minutes should put that doubt to rest.