Head2Head Sports

Ball So Hard: The Quest for the Perfect Salary Cap Basketball Team Week 20

By Brian Rothstein

Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter @BRothH2H for the latest updates and breaking fantasy news!

Kevin Durant (ID 101, $21.0)

I know I keep stating the obvious, but Durant is head and shoulders ahead of every guy in the league not named LeBron. He’s averaging a ridiculous 28.4 points, 7.9 rebounds and 4.7 assists, not to mention over a steal and a block per game too. Oklahoma City has the NBA’s third best record as well, meaning he’ll get the 5 point win bonus more often than not. Put him in your lineups.

Stephen Curry (ID 131, $13.8)

The Warriors have been playing poorly but Stephen Curry can’t be blamed. The sweet shooting guard is 8^th in the league in scoring at 22.0 PPG. He can light up the scoreboard at anytime, as evidenced by his 54 point outburst against the Knicks. Golden State has an easy schedule this week minus a date with the Bulls. As good as they are defensively, Curry is pretty much matchup proof at this point.

Monta Ellis (ID 146, $12.3)

Ellis has been absolutely on fire recently. He’s scored at least 20 points in 7 straight games. The J.J. Redick trade has been the catalyst for Ellis’ stellar play. He’s averaging 24.6 PPG since the Orlando guard was acquired. Roll with Ellis and hope he remains hot.

Al Horford (ID 151, $11.8)

Horford is enjoying the finest season of his career, putting up 17.4 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. He’s also one of the better passing big men in the league. His 3.3 APG rank 5^th among all power forwards and centers. Horford’s scoring has really picked up with 20+ point efforts in 11 of his last 13 outings. He’s playing at an incredibly high level right now so there’s no reason to take him out of your lineups.

Paul George (ID 158, $10.9)

The third year forward from Fresno State has really blossomed into a star. He’s become the team’s leading scorer with Danny Granger having been injured for most of the season. George’s averages of 17.6 PPG, 7.8 RPG and 4.0 APG make him one of the most versatile players in the league. Granger’s return scared some fantasy owners into thinking George’s effectiveness might be diminished. That hasn’t been the case and Granger is once again sidelined. With 5 games this week, the Pacers leading man will do what he’s been doing all season; be a fantasy stud.

J.J. Hickson (ID 209, $7.0)

Hickson has been one of the most consistent big men in the league. His 35 double-doubles are tied for 2^nd most. The North Carolina State product is averaging 16.8 points and 11.9 rebounds over his last 10 contests. Hickson provides solid production night in and night out. I like him this week.

Damian Lillard (ID 235, $6.4)

Lillard is the player who offers the most bang for your buck. Literally. He’s the only player in the top 31 fantasy scorers who costs less than $9.8 million. The rookie sensation has been, well…sensational. Lillard leads all rookies in points and assists, and is only getting better as the season progresses. His per game averages in March are 23.8 points, 6.4 assists and 2.8 rebounds. Lillard is a no-brainer.

J.R Smith (ID 238, $6.3)

J.R. Smith never met a shot he didn’t like. His shot selection has come under fire from Coach Mike Woodson, but Smith is as undeterred as ever. The mercurial shooting guard has been on a tear lately though, averaging 19.0 points and 6.3 rebounds in March. He had a stinker of a game against Golden State but I expect him to bounce back nicely in Denver. With Carmelo Anthony not 100% and Amare Stoudemire injured once again, Smith should continue to be leaned upon to score.

Emeka Okafor (ID 281, $5.3)

I highlighted Okafor last week and he’s done nothing to disappoint. The Washington big man has pulled down double digit rebounds in 7 of his last 9, and has suddenly remembered how to put the ball in the basket too. After scoring in double digits only 8 times through the first 2 months of the season, Okafor has done it in 9 of his last 12 contests. I see no reason his recent success won’t continue.

Derrick Williams (ID 291, $5.1)

I don’t know happy the Timberwolves are with his abysmal .417 FG%, but there’s literally nobody else in Minnesota to play. With the team decimated by injuries, Williams wins heavy minutes by default. Regardless, he’s going to play and take a ton of shots which is the only reason you need to start him. 19.0 PPG and 8.2 rebounds over his last 5 games certainly don’t hurt either.

Ball So Hard: The Quest for the Perfect Salary Cap Basketball Team – Week 13

By Brian Rothstein

Well, we’ve reached the midway point of the season and salaries have been dropped. Everything has been going well for me so far and I have close to a 600 point lead in my league. 8^th overall is the highest I’ve been able to score for a single week, but we’ll get there. Keep reading!

Al Jefferson (ID 115, $16.0)

This was a difficult choice between him and LaMarcus Aldridge. I went with Jefferson because he doesn’t have to play the Clippers twice this week like the Blazers do. Big Al continues to put up good numbers everywhere he goes and he might be moving once again at the trade deadline so the Jazz can make room for Derrick Favors. As for right now he’s still in Utah and playing well.

James Harden (ID 144, $14.6)

The Rockets are playing terrible basketball right now and Harden is partly to blame. His points are down and his turnovers are way up. Any questions as to why Houston has lost 7 straight? Don’t fret though because Harden and the Rockets should turn it around soon. The Beard can be streaky at times and I have a good feeling he’ll snap out of his funk this week.

David Lee (ID 126, $14.2)

The Warriors have 5 games this week so we’re obviously going to load up on them. Lee has been a huge reason why Golden State is 2^nd in the Pacific Division. The former Florida star is averaging 19.8 PPG, 10.8 RPG, and a healthy 3.7 APG. His passing is outstanding for a big man. He tweaked his ankle last week so check back closer to Wednesday for an update on his status. He should be fine to deploy though.

Stephen Curry (ID 131, $13.8)

The man with the glass ankles has been able to stay (mostly) healthy this season which is great news for fantasy owners. When healthy, Curry is one of the better guards in the league. Curry is 9^th in the league in scoring at 20.5 PPG and tied for 12^th with 6.6 APG. He also leads the league in 3 point makes per game at 3.1. What I’m trying to say is that Curry is pretty darn good. He definitely deserves a start this week.

Carlos Boozer (ID 138, $13.1)

Boozer is probably the hottest player in the league right now. He’s averaging 22.8 PPG and 12 RPG over his last 10 contests. Nobody’s sure how long his stellar play will last, but it makes sense to ride him while he’s hot. Let’s hope he has another week of All-Star caliber play left in the tank.

J.J Hickson (ID 209, $7.0)

The North Carolina State product has turned in to a rebounding machine this year. He’s tied for 3^rd in the league with 23 double-doubles. Hickson’s consistency makes him a solid choice. The Blazers play the Clippers twice this week so don’t look for the 5 point win bonus. Regardless, Hickson should be in your lineups.

Damian Lillard (ID 235, $6.4)

I think it’s safe to say that everyone knows about Lillard by now. He’s owned by a whopping 45% of our teams, and for good reason too. He’s scored more fantasy points than Brandon Jennings, Monta Ellis, and Deron Williams. All for a fraction of their price. Play him.

Greivis Vasquez (ID 260, $5.8)

Vasquez is having a heck of a season. He’s one of only 4 guys in the league to average at least 9 assists per game. He’s picked up his production as of late averaging 16.3 PPG and 10.2 APG over his last 10 games. He turns the ball over too much but it’s hard to argue with his production.

Ed Davis (ID 308, $4.7)

I highlighted Davis 2 weeks ago as a guy to pay attention to. He’s been making some serious noise north of the border averaging 14.2 PPG and 8.2 RPG over his last 10. Davis is incredibly athletic and is showing the promise that warranted the Raptors drafting him 13^th overall a few years ago. Davis is playing great right now. Capitalize on the chance to play him.

Andray Blatche (ID 345, $3.7)

What are the 3 things I like most about Andray Blatche? Number 1, he’s cheap. Number 2, he’s cheap. Number 3, he’s cheap. Blatche can be counted on for his consistency and remains a great fantasy option because of (you guessed it) his super cheap salary.

Ball So Hard: The Quest for the Perfect Salary Cap Basketball Team – Week 12

by Brian Rothstein

Kevin Durant (ID 101, $21.0)

Same old story. The best fantasy basketball player this year needs to be in your lineup.

David Lee (ID 126, $14.2)

Lee is one of my favorite fantasy players from my days in roto leagues. He’s one of only 10 players in the league averaging a double-double and is a major reason why the Warriors are playing so well. They have a brutal schedule next week so I wouldn’t look for the win bonus, but pencil Lee in for around 30 fantasy points a night.

Tim Duncan (ID 139, $13.0)

In my opinion Duncan is one the top 5 greatest players ever. He’s underrated because his game isn’t flashy, but he’s an all-time great. Duncan is enjoying a renaissance season and is the cheapest player in the top 15 fantasy scorers. With Manu Ginobili out for a few weeks Duncan may be asked to score the ball a bit more and play a few extra minutes. He’s a great value at only $13 million.

James Harden (ID 144, $14.6)

I’m going to really expensive here and try and fill out the back end of my roster with ultra cheap players. In a week where I don’t love too many of the players with 4 games I’m going to squeeze Harden in my lineup. He’s the 4^th highest scoring fantasy player and shows no signs of slowing down. He’s scored at least 21 points in 19 straight games. Sounds solid and consistent to me.

Klay Thompson (ID 166, $9.9)

I’m disappointed in Klay Thompson. Being on the West coast, I saw Thompson play at Washington State so I know how good of a shooter he is. I thought he was poised for a huge breakout based on his stellar play at the end of last season. While I had higher hopes, 15.8 PPG is still pretty good. He’s never going to contribute much in other categories, but Thompson can get hot and put the ball in the basket as good as anyone. I think he has a couple of hot streaks in him this week.

Jameer Nelson (ID 236, $6.3)

The diminutive guard from St. Joseph’s has had a very nice NBA career. Health has always been an issue for him, and that’s been no different this year. Nelson has been on fire lately averaging 21.4 PPG and 8.5 APG over his last 10 outings. I’ll hold my breath though because he can go cold or get injured at any time.

Nikola Vucevic (ID 271, $5.5)

This guy is a rebounding machine.  He’s 4^th in the league in rebounding and is showing his worth now that he’s getting consistent minutes. The big guy is averaging 14.7 PPG and 14.6 RPG over his last 10 games. He’s playing the best basketball out of anyone in his price range. Start him.

Chandler Parsons (ID 278, $5.4)

Parson’s play has started to be a bit inconsistent, but he’s had 2 good games in a row.  He might not have been fully healthy so I’m hoping that was the reason. The Rockets have some winnable games coming up. I’m going with Parsons because of the 5 point win bonus I expect the Rockets to get in 3 of their 4 games.

Omer Asik (ID 280, $5.3)

Asik joins David Lee in the esteemed double-double club. I know I was just complaining about Parsons being inconsistent, but Asik’s game to game fluctuations are much worse. Still, you have to hope he has a hot week instead of a cold one. With their schedule I think this week will be the former rather than the latter.

Gary Neal (ID 317, $4.5)

Manu Ginobili is out for 10-14 days with a hamstring strain so somebody is going to have to pick up his minutes. The leading candidate is Gary Neal. Neal proved earlier in the year that he can be useful when he gets 30 minutes per game. He’s not going to score 20 points per game, but if he can total 80 points for the week I would be more than happy.

Ball So Hard: The Quest for the Perfect Salary Cap Basketball Team – Week 11

By Brian Rothstein

Kevin Durant (ID 101, $21.0)

KD is the highest scoring fantasy player through the first 10 weeks of the season. The only thing that could make this even better is if he had 5 games. Sorry, that doesn’t happen this season, but 4 games is almost as good.

Kobe Bryant (ID 108, $17.5)

It’s fun to see the Lakers stink. I’m pretty sure an angel gets its wings every time they lose. The team’s struggles certainly can’t be placed on Kobe’s shoulders though. The 34 year old leads the league in scoring and has at least 27 points in 17 straight games. With reports that Dwight Howard has a torn labrum and Pau Gasol has a concussion,Kobe could be in line for even more shots. This is a great situation from a fantasy perspective.

James Harden (ID 144, $14.6)

Another obvious choice. Harden has played his way into the MVP conversation by leading the surprising Rockets. The former ASU star has scored more than 20 points in every game since December 4^th. His 5.3 APG, 4.2 RPG and 2.0 SPG certainly don’t hurt either. Start Harden.

Monta Ellis (ID 146, $12.3)

Breaking news out of Milwaukee is that Scott Skiles will be leaving the Bucks. This is great news for fantasy owners because Skiles often makes people wonder aloud, “what the hell is he doing?” Call this a hunch, and it depends on who they name interim head coach, but I think Ellis will play a bit more freely. They have a couple of very winnable games on their schedule as well.

Kemba Walker (ID 208, $7.0)

Ok, you should know the drill by now. I pretty much rotate my cheapest players among a select few depending on the amount of games they have per week. He’s put up a couple of stinkers recently, but bounced back nicely with a 20 point effort on Sunday. Plus he has 5 games this week which gives him a huge edge over other players.

Damian Lillard (ID 235, $6.4)

I can see that the rest of you have caught on to Lillard. He’s owned on a whopping 62% of our teams. I’m surprised at his consistency scoring the basketball which often doesn’t happen for young players. Enjoy it while you can because his cheap price tag won’t last for long.

Greivis Vasquez (ID 60, $5.8)

After struggling with his shot in the beginning of the season, Vasquez has really turned it around. The former Maryland Terrapin has been averaging 17.3 PPG over his last 10 games. Not to mention that he’s 3^rd in the league in assists. Play Vasquez while he’s on fire.

Omer Asik (ID  280, $5.3)

Asik has been maddeningly inconsistent this year. He’s averaging a double-double, but it’s rare for him to do so in the same game. He only has 13 on the season. Regardless, he’s a great fantasy option on a good team. He’s going to get his numbers and pick up a few 5 point win bonuses along the way.

Andre Kirilenko (ID 287, $5.1)

The Timberwolves are really hurting right now. Rick Adelman’s squad has been absolutely decimated by injuries. The one constant for them this season has been AK-47 who’s put up 4 straight double digit scoring efforts. With the recent injury to Kevin Love, Kirilenko could be asked to assume a bigger role in the offense. I like this situation from a fantasy perspective as well.

Ed Davis (ID 308, $4.7)

Here’s a name you might not be familiar with. Davis has played well since he started getting consistent minutes. A banged up Raptors frontline means that he’ll continue to see heavy usage. The young big man has averaged 13.0 PPG and 7.0 RPG over his last 5 games, and that includes a clunker of 4 points and 3 rebounds against OKC. I think Davis is a great play this week to fill out your rosters.

Ball So Hard: The Quest for the Perfect Salary Cap Basketball Team – Week 10

By Brian Rothstein

The last full week, Week 8,  I finished close to the top spot in 8^th place overall. Almost there to first place. I’m writing this on my cell phone in a car (Don’t worry I’m not driving) which is really difficult. That’s what I call dedication. Anyways, I hope everyone has a Happy New Year and wins a lot of money with us in 2013!

Kevin Durant (ID 101, $21.0)

No explanation needed. Seriously… I’m not going to type anything

LeBron James (ID 102, $20.7)

Ok, we’re going really expensive this week. I’m risking having two players take over 40% of my salary but who cares when it’s the two best players in the league. James might be the best all around player of all time. Right after Brian Scalabrine of course. This move will pay off. Start LeBron.

James Harden (ID 144, $14.6)

The Beard is in full effect. I think he should trademark that thing like Anthony Davis has done with his unibrow. Harden is averaging 28.6 PPG over his last 10 outings and has played like a superstar for Houston. His future and the team’s long term success looks bright. And have I mentioned how awesome his beard is?

Jrue Holiday (ID 168, $9.8)

Holiday has come into his own as a fantasy stat. His 18.8 PPG, 4.1 RPG, and 8.9 APG are great numbers. On the other hand his 3.8 TO are terrible. He won’t be elite until he can cut those down but he’s good enough for this week.

Nikola Pekovic (ID 168, $9.7)

Pekovic is an absolute beast. If you’ve never seen him play he’s a big, hulking figure in the low post. He appeared on fantasy radars last season but got off to a slow start this year. He’s been playing better recently though putting up 18.6 PPG and 11.4 RPG over his last 5 contests. I think he’ll have a nice week.

Damian Lillard (ID 235, $6.4)

I feel like I’m recycling the same players week in and week out. But I’m winning so I’ll keep my team eco-friendly. The rookie is averaging 18.3 PPG and 6.3 APG and came within 2 rebounds of a triple-double the other night. He’s the best value in our game besides Chandler Parsons.

Chandler Parsons (ID 278, $5.4)

I got scared last week when I read he had a swollen knee. Then he went out and scored 24 points and made me look stupid. His 15.0 PPG and 6.3 RPG make him the front runner for Most Improved Player. Enjoy his production for a few more weeks until his salary increases.

Andre Kirilenko (ID 287, $5.1)

AK-47 has been brilliant for the Wolves this year. He’d been a bit quiet before breaking out with 20 points the other night, but his season numbers are solid. A true 5 category player, Kirilenko can fill it up any given night. His 13.3 PPG and 6.9 RPG averages equate to an 80 point week. He’ll surpass that.

Andray Blatche (ID 345, $3.7)

Blatche was fantastic in the absence of Brook Lopez. He’s obviously cooled down with this return to the bench, but he remains one of the cheapest options in our game. He won’t post huge numbers but if I can get 80 points for the week I would be happy. I think he can reach that number. Put Blatche in your lineups.

John Salmons (ID 348, $3.6)

Salmons has been maddeningly inconsistent this year. He’s had a few nice games recently though so I hope it’s a sign he can turn it around. He’s coming off of a 23 point effort. I have to go cheap here and I think Salmons provides some upside for such cheap value.

Pass or Play Week 17

By Brian Rothstein

Well, this is the last week of Pass or Play. It’s been a great season and I hope I’ve been able to give some good advice along the way. With a win this week my final record would stand at 16-1. That 1 loss is going to bother me until next year. Anyways, you’re on your own for the playoffs so good luck!

PASS

Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta Falcons

The Buccaneers have the league’s worst pass defense so I must be crazy telling you not to play him right? Well, not really. The Falcons have already clinched home field advantage in the playoffs so this game is literally meaningless. I can’t see Ryan playing any of the 4^th quarter. Of course, he could still throw 5 TD’s in 3 quarters against the Bucs…

Michael Turner, RB, Atlanta Falcons

I see that Turner is still owned on 2% of our teams. That number should be 0%. Hell, it should probably even be in the negatives. Tampa Bay only allows 83.7 rushing YPG and Turner hasn’t gone over 100 yards since Week 9. The guy really sucks and is only averaging 3.6 YPC. He’s nowhere near starting caliber for a fantasy RB. Avoid him.

Ray Rice, RB, Baltimore Ravens

Much like the Falcons, this game doesn’t mean too much to the Ravens. They have already clinched a first round home game but can’t secure home field throughout the playoffs. Rice has been great the past few weeks, but I would expect to see more of Bernard Pierce in this game. I’m always wary of players who don’t have anything to play for. I want a guy who’s motivated. Adrian Peterson anyone?

Victor Cruz, WR, New York Giants

The Giants have certainly fallen off the table. The defending Super Bowl champs are virtually eliminated from the playoffs. It would take a miracle for them to get in. Eli Manning and the offensive line have been horrible and the effects show. Cruz has 6 catches for 36 yards combined over the last 2 weeks. The matchup is favorable but Manning can’t be trusted right now.

Randall Cobb, WR, Green Bay Packers

This isn’t really a pass, but more of a warning. Cobb has missed practice the last few days and is nursing ankle and knee injuries. 25% of our teams still have him on their roster. I would advise moving him off because his status is questionable. The Packers don’t need to push Cobb out there so even if he plays I would expect limited snaps. Keep an eye on his status if you really want to roll with him, but it would be better to bench him all together.

PLAY

Tony Romo, QB, Dallas Cowboys

I’m taking a bit of a risk here because Tony Romo could easily choke like he’s done most of his career. He’s been on fire though throwing 17 TD to only 3 INT over the last 8 weeks. Romo also threw for 441 yards and 3 TD’s when these two teams met on Thanksgiving. In a hard fought battle for the NFC East crown, look for a ton of points to be scored in this game. I’ll keep my fingers crossed. Just try not to choke, Romo.

Marshawn Lynch, RB, Seattle Seahawks

Beast Mode has an astounding 9 100 yard games this season. If Adrian Peterson wasn’t from another planet Lynch would be leading the league in rushing. The last time the Seahawks faced the Rams Lynch went off for 155 total yards and a TD. The Rams have also allowed the 3^rd most rushing TD’s. All signs point to Lynch having another dominant afternoon.

C. J. Spiller, RB, Buffalo Bills

The former Clemson star leads the NFL in YPC. I hope the injury to Fred Jackson has finally gotten Chan Gailey to realize that Spiller is the future in Buffalo. The guy is the real deal. Consider this. Spiller has 10 games with over 100 total yards, even with splitting carries for a good portion of the year. The only man to have more 20 yard carries than Spiller? Adrian Peterson. Spiller is an explosive back who has the ability to take it to the house every time he touches the ball. He’s already shredded the Jets run D once this year. He’ll do it again on Sunday.

Dez Bryant, WR, Dallas Cowboys

What fractured finger? Bryant has been the best receiver outside of Calvin Johnson the second half of the season. He’s found the endzone in 7 straight weeks and has 10 TD’s over that span. Bryant is simply a must play right now. If you need more reasons to start him, the last time he played Washington he went off for 145 yards and 2 TD’s. Get him in your lineups if he’s not already there.

Brandon Marshall, WR, Chicago Bears

The Bears are fighting for their playoff lives. They need a win on Sunday so they should be doing anything and everything to get the ball into the hands of their best player, Jay Cutler. Just kidding, I mean Brandon Marshall. Marshall is second only to Calvin Johnson in both receptions and receiving yards. If Matt Forte can’t go or is limited, Marshall’s value goes even higher. The Lions were absolutely torched by Matt Ryan last week too. Of course, Cutler is nowhere near the QB that Ryan is, but Marshall should still have an easy time against the Lions defense.

Ball So Hard: The Quest for the Perfect Salary Cap Basketball Team – Week 9

by Brian Rothstein

LeBron James (ID 102, $20.7)

Anytime King James has 4 games in a week I’m sticking him in my lineup. The best all around player in basketball is averaging 25.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG and 6.8 APG. The Heat should win all 4 of their games next week too. This choice is a no brainer.

James Harden (ID 144, $14.6)

Harden has flourished since being traded from the Thunder and has turned in to one of the better all around players in the league. His ability to get to the line and knock down free throws makes him almost immune to having a bad scoring game. The Bearded One has 30+ points in 3 of his last 4 games too. The Rockets have a tough schedule so I wouldn’t look for the 5 point win bonus, but Harden should score enough to make up for that.

Tim Duncan (ID 139, $13.0)

At the ripe old age of 36 Duncan has been the 3^rd best fantasy player this season. The future Hall of Famer continues to turn back the clock averaging 17.6 PPG and 10.4 RPG for the Spurs. He’s the cheapest player in the top 13 point scorers for Head2Head so this is an easy decision.

Al Horford (ID 151, $11.8)

Horford is so cheap because his numbers were down after being injured for a large portion of last year. He’s struggled a bit recently but he’s still averaging 15.6 PPG and 9.8 RPG on the season. The Hawks have an easy schedule next week and 5 games. Take advantage while you can because he’s guaranteed to go up at midseason.

Paul George (ID 158, $10.9)

George is one of the better all around players in the league. The 3rd year forward from Fresno State has really stepped up  recently averaging 19.4 PPG, 8.1 RPG and 4.1 APG over his last 10 games, with over a steal and a block per game as well. Without Danny Granger, George is the go to guy on the Pacers. Play him and enjoy the filled stat sheet.

George Hill (ID 228, $6.5)

The Indiana Pacers struck gold when they decided to put George Hill into their starting lineup. Hill has been really good posting a stat line of 15.2 PPG, 4.3 RPG and 5.3 APG. At only $6.5 million he’s definitely a steal. If you need a cheaper player to fill out your roster he’s the man.

Damian Lillard (ID 235, $6.4)

The rookie from Weber State is almost a surefire lock for rookie of the year. Sure, he’s going to struggle from the field and have some bad games, but that comes with being a rookie. More nights than not he’s going to post solid numbers. Lillard is going to be a superstar one day. The Blazers have a tough schedule, but he’s too good and too cheap to not have in your lineup.

Nicola Vucevic (ID 271, $5.5)

Vucevic has been really inconsistent this season but has turned it on lately. The Swiss big man has double-doubles in 5 of his last 6 and is averaging 13.6 RPG over that span. The injury to Glen Davis really boosts his value too. I have a good felling about Vucevic this week.

Chandler Parsons (ID 278, $5.4)

Parsons has slowed down a bit having not reached double figures in 3 consecutive games. How he bounces back will show me a lot and prove whether Parsons can continue his great play all season. I think he has a really nice skill set and is the real deal so I’m going to roll with him again this week. I think he’ll turn it around.

Matt Barnes (ID 283, $5.2)

Barnes is a major reason why the Clippers are the 2^nd best team in the league. He’s helped fuel the Clippers 13 game winning streak averaging 13.5 PPG off of the bench during that span, and has been particularly hot recently. Barnes probably won’t wow you, but he will post solid numbers and get that 5 point win bonus with the way the Clippers have been playing.

Pass or Play Week 16

By Brian Rothstein

The season’s winding down and hopefully you’re getting ready for the playoffs. Even if you aren’t there’s still a lot to play for so keep reading and good luck!

PASS

Russell Wilson, QB, Seattle Seahawks

The rookie has played with incredible poise all year long. Wilson is coming off a career game against Buffalo and looks to be trending upward. Not against San Francisco. The 49ers have the league’s second best passing defense. Last time Wilson faced them he was 9-23 for 122 yards and an INT. A rather Sanchez-esque performance. I’m not saying the Seahawks might not win, but either way it’s going to be ugly.

Trent Richardson, RB, Cleveland Browns

I like Trent Richardson a lot, but he’s not matchup proof yet. He broke Jim Brown’s team rookie record for TD’s, but he’s averaging only 3.5 YPC on the season. The Broncos have what I think is the NFL’s best run defense (sorry Tampa Bay) so I’m not expecting much from Richardson. Look elsewhere.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis, RB, Cincinnati Bengals

The Law Firm has really turned it on lately going over 100 yards in 4 of his last 5 games. While he’s a solid back, I don’t think he’s good enough to keep it going against a top defense on the road. He’ll look more like the law firm of Rumble, Bumble, and Stumble this week. Not exactly someone I’d put my faith in. There are plenty of better options.

A.J. Green, WR, Cincinnati Bengals

I’m rooting for the Bengals to win. How sweet it would be for Bengals fans to beat Pittsburgh at Heinz Field and dash their playoff hopes. I can’t buy it until I see it happen though. The Steelers give up the fewest yards through the air and the last time these teams played Green had 1 measly catch for 8 yards. Certainly uninspiring numbers. There are much better options. Calvin Johnson anyone?

Reggie Wayne, WR, Indianapolis Colts

Wayne has come back down to Earth after being up in the clouds for a good portion of the season. His last 3 games combined have only yielded 13 catches for 129 yards. We know how much Andrew Luck has struggled on the road and Arrowhead is one of the toughest places to go play. Of course that’s assuming Chiefs fans care anymore. Still, sit Wayne against a surprisingly good pass defense.

PLAY

Cam Newton, QB, Carolina Panthers

I’ve honestly never liked Cam Newton. Maybe it’s his stupidity of celebrating meaningless plays with his super-douche move. But, if he can help me win a fantasy matchup I’ll at least have to respect his ability. Newton has been on fire over the last 5 weeks and hasn’t thrown a pick during that span. I love the fact that he runs the ball so much too. A great matchup against the hapless Raiders has me excited to see what he can do.

DeMarco Murray, RB, Dallas Cowboys

I would have laughed 5 weeks ago if you had told me the Cowboys would have a legitimate shot at making the playoffs. Well, Hell has frozen over and the ‘Boys have a great shot of sneaking in. DeMarco Murray has been a large reason why. He has a TD in all 3 games since returning from injury and 4 catches in every game as well. His versatility makes him a good PPR fantasy play, especially against the Saints 2^nd worst run defense.

Knowshon Moreno, RB, Denver Broncos

It’s a true story of rags to riches as Moreno has gone from a healthy scratch to a fantasy star. He’s been fantastic since taking over for Willis McGahee. Moreno has averaged 23 carries per game and remains active in the passing game too. That kind of usage warrants a play, especially for how cheap he is. There’s no better bargain in the game right now.

Danny Amendola, WR, St. Louis Rams

Grab your party hats St. Louis, this marks a first. I’ve never featured a Rams player in my Play section before. Amendola has changed my mind though. The PPR whiz is one of the most frequently targeted players in the league. His health problems have held him back, but he’s not on the injury report this week. A close to healthy Amendola against the Buccaneers league worst pass defense? I’m buying.

Dez Bryant, WR, Dallas Cowboys

Bryant has turned in to a fantasy stud in the second half of the season. The former Oklahoma State star has 8 TD in his last 6 games. His finger scares me a little bit, but he still posted 59 yards and a TD against Pittsburgh. Another week to heal a little and the Saints in town leaves me optimistic.