The NBA’s second annual in-season tournament heats up on Tuesday night with six crucial NBA Cup matchups on tap. The headline clash pits the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers against their playoff nemesis Boston Celtics. Superstars like Donovan Mitchell, Jayson Tatum, and Darius Garland are set to take center stage.
For fantasy managers and sports bettors, it’s a loaded slate with plenty of opportunities to capitalize. We’ve dug into the data to spotlight the top players to build around, the most advantageous prop bets, and optimal lineup strategies for Tuesday’s action. Let’s dive in.
Top Player Projections and Props
All eyes will be on the Cavs-Celtics tilt, where Cleveland’s dynamic backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland take on Boston’s star duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The projections suggest a high-scoring, tightly-contested affair:
- Jayson Tatum: 50.9 FPTS (30.0 pts, 7.6 reb, 6.3 ast, 4.0 3PM)
- Donovan Mitchell: 41.4 FPTS (23.9 pts, 4.5 reb, 4.0 ast, 3.2 3PM)
- Jaylen Brown: 42.4 FPTS (26.4 pts, 6.6 reb, 4.4 ast, 2.1 3PM)
- Darius Garland: 36.1 FPTS (19.6 pts, 2.4 reb, 6.0 ast, 2.5 3PM)
When it comes to props, consider riding the hot hand with Mitchell, who seems poised to come out firing in this revenge game. The savvy play is taking the over on his first quarter points prop of 6.5 at -115 odds. He’s cleared this mark in 7 of his last 10.
In the assists department, lock in Garland at over 6.5 dimes (-140). The Cavs’ uptempo attack and the Celtics’ paint-focused defense is a recipe for Garland to rack up helpers to his rolling big men.
Nuggets-Grizzlies Picks
The injury-riddled Nuggets head to Memphis as 4.5-point underdogs in a game with major NBA Cup implications. If Nikola Jokic suits up, he’s a lock for 50+ FPTS. But the value lies with Jamal Murray, projected for 38.1 FPTS as the Nuggets’ primary option if the Joker sits.
For the Grizz, Jaren Jackson Jr. (31.4 FPTS) and Desmond Bane (29.8 FPTS) will have to shoulder the load sans Ja Morant. Both have 20+ point upside against Denver’s depleted defense.
Dart Throws and Bargain Plays
If you’re looking for cheap options with upside to round out your lineups, consider these under-the-radar targets:
- Dorian Finney-Smith, Nets (94.4% available): Averaging 31 FPTS since returning from injury and gets a plum matchup vs the Hornets’ 20th ranked defense.
- Jaylen Nowell, Pelicans (99.6% available): Thrust into a larger role amid a rash of Pelicans’ injuries and has flashed with 20+ FPTS in 2 of last 4. Facing a exploitable Mavs defense.
- Zach Collins, Spurs (97.5% available): Slated for big minutes with Victor Wembanyama doubtful. Went for 37 FPTS last time Wemby sat.
Optimal Lineup Strategy
When constructing your lineups for this 6-game slate, consider anchoring with stars like Tatum, Mitchell, and a healthy Jokic. Then find value with some of the injury beneficiaries and bargains mentioned above. Mid-range options like Jackson Jr, Bane, and Murray offer a nice mix of safety and upside to balance your roster.
In the prop market, home in on positive game environments and exploit favorable defensive matchups. The Cavs stars in a revenge spot against Boston are a great place to start.
Building winning NBA lineups is about striking the right blend of star power and under-the-radar value. Ride the studs you trust, but don’t be afraid to take some calculated risks in good spots.
– NBA Fantasy Analytics Expert
With these picks and lineup tips in tow, you’re well-equipped to crush Tuesday’s NBA Cup slate. As always, stay locked in to any late-breaking injury news and trust your process. Best of luck!
