One of the best ways to optimize your NBA lineups is to keep close track of potential scratches and to adapt quickly to changes. Every Wednesday and Friday I'll give you a few things to watch for based on players with statuses that could indicate they won't play - and what that could mean for adjustments to your lineup. I'll also answer questions on Twitter closer to lock @cfrelund.
Good luck!
Even if Evan Fournier (probable) plays ...
Elfrid Payton should be on your list of GPP options. I say GPP and not cash because this is still Scott Skiles' rotation, and Payton's had some inconsistent production (four points in just 23 minutes vs. the Pacers on Feb. 21). However, the matchup against the Suns is almost as good as they come for point guards. Since the All-Star break, the opposing PG with the "worst" showing against the Suns was Donald Sloan (13 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, which was worth 32.75 fantasy points on DraftKings).
By the way, Victor Oladipo's also up for GPP consideration if Fournier plays, and he's cash-safe if he doesn't.
If Michael Carter-Williams (questionable) doesn't play ...
Jerryd Bayless becomes a great low-cost point guard option for both cash and GPP lineups. Bayless is averaging 28.3 minutes per game, but look at the last two games where MCW wasn't playing and you'll find Bayless played 32 and 35 minutes apiece, scoring 11 and 18 points and grabbing three rebounds each time. He also averaged 4.5 assists in those two contests. The only thing that may make him somewhat unappealing is the depth at the point guard position tonight.
MCW being out also gives a small boost to both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton, who are both already on my list of best options on DraftKings, and only good options on FanDuel due to price.