FanDuel Price: $4,800
Why He Will Go Overlooked:
Daily fantasy owners have been flocking to the likes of Dennis Schroder, Taurean Prince, and Dwight Howard with Atlanta banged up, which has left Ersan Ilyasova a forgotten man. With plenty to like at power forward on this deep slate, Ilyasova isn't likely to be a chalky play.
One thing to keep an eye on throughout the day that could really detract ownership from Ilyasova is Marc Gasol's status. If Gasol sits again, Zach Randolph will likely be the most popular play at the position and is in the same vicinity as Ilyasova price-wise.
Why You Should Use Him:
With Paul Millsap slated to miss the next three games, Ilyasova will continue enjoying an expanded role in tonight's revenge game against the Philadelphia 76ers that shipped him away earlier this season. Ilyasova has averaged 27.5 FanDuel points and 29.8 minutes of playing time since Millsap went down and has looked more accustomed to his new role with each game.
He's been especially involved on the glass, an area where the Sixers struggle. Ilyasova has averaged 13 boards over his past three games and should control the glass against Philadelphia, who ranks 23rd in rebounding rate. They've also been dreadful against opposing bigs from a fantasy perspective, allowing the 11th-most FanDuel points to power forwards and the most to opposing centers.
Ilyasova will spend most of time being defended by the man Philly traded him to open up minutes for -- Dario Saric. While he may not have the long-term upside Saric does, Ilyasova shouldn't have trouble getting his on the offensive end against the youngster, who ranks 86th in DRPM among 93 qualified power forwards.
If nitpicking for a reason to avoid Ilyasova in cash games, Kent Bazemore will return to the floor for Atlanta tonight, which could negatively affect his value. However, given his expanded role, the advantageous matchup, revenge narrative and bargain price, Ilyasova really checks all of the boxes. Our projections agree, listing him as one of the best value plays on the slate.