This article is part of our FanDuel NBA series.
The long wait for the start of the NBA season is finally over. Most of you who participate in season long fantasy leagues have drafted your squads and are ready to embark on what will hopefully be a championship season.
While the fun of draft day is in your rearview mirror, daily fantasy brings that excitement back into the mix, as well as the hope of winning some cash. Whether you've been playing since its inception or are giving it a try for the first time, starting off the season in a winning way can set the tone for a successful season.
There are three games on the schedule for Tuesday night. Here are some of the better options to consider when creating your FanDuel lineup:
Guards
Damian Lillard, POR vs UTA ($8,900): Lillard is one of the best point guards in the league and is usually a safe bet when it comes to daily contests, as he logs a lot of minutes. He was excellent last year, averaging 25.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 3.1 three-pointers in 36 minutes per game. Look for him to get off to a hot start this season at home Tuesday against the Jazz.
C.J. McCollum, POR vs UTA ($6,900): McCollum broke out in a big way last season, as he averaged 20.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.2 steals and 2.5 three-pointers in 35 minutes per game. He and Lillard are the studs on this team, so look for both of them to get plenty of shots on a nightly basis. There aren't a ton of great shooting guard options with only three games on the docket, but I think McCollum comes in at a solid price and will put up big numbers.
Brandon Jennings, NY at CLE ($4,500): If you want to take a chance on a cheap option at point guard, I'd roll the dice on Jennings. The Knicks aren't particularly deep, so he is going to have to carry a significant scoring load for their second unit. Players at this price are hit or miss, but I think Jennings can out-produce his price tag Tuesday.
Forwards
Kawhi Leonard, SA at GS ($7,900): With Tim Duncan retired and Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili in the twilight of their careers, Leonard is one of the leaders on the Spurs. He was excellent last season as he averaged 21.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.8 three-pointers a game. Look for him to get off to a great start to the season, even in a difficult matchup against Golden State.
Kristaps Porzingis, NY at CLE ($6,900): Porzingis and Carmelo Anthony are the only returning players from the Knicks' starting five last season and Porzingis will continue to have a big role again in 2016-17. Derrick Rose's ability to drive the lane and Joakim Noah's ability to pass from the post should result in some nice looks for Porzingis. I think he starts off the season with a strong performance against the defending champs.
Kyle Anderson, SA at GS ($3,500): Of all the cheap options Tuesday, I like Anderson the most. Danny Green is injured and out of action, so that should open up some extra minutes for Anderson. He only averaged 16 minutes per game last season, but I wouldn't be surprised to see him play around 25 or more minutes Tuesday. I'm giving him a shot in this one.
Centers
Rudy Gobert, UTA at POR ($6,200): I am really excited about Gobert this season. He spent the summer working on his free-throw shooting and has demonstrated tangible improvement in the preseason. He is a defensive monster who also controls the glass whenever he's on the floor. I'm expecting him to at least post a double-double while recording a couple of blocks Tuesday, making him a valuable play at this price.
Joakim Noah, NY at CLE ($5,000): Noah seems to always be extra hyped to play LeBron James. Combine that with the fact he will be making his debut for his hometown team growing up and this has the makings of a big night for Noah. While he doesn't score much, his ability to rebound, block shots and rack up assists from the center position make worth consideration at this reasonable price Tuesday.
