Posted: Jan. 7, 2014
Before you set your lineups today for this week's Suns Fantasy Challenge, presented by Casino Arizona, we've got a few insights and inside tips for you.
The developer of our new-and-improved fantasy game, Hotbox Sports, has assembled a roster of coaching minds, who will assist you in selecting your lineup each week. But before we digest this week's scouting report, we need to congratulate PhxSunsFann, who won $300 as part of the HotBox Sports Cup program, along with a Phoenix Suns Yearbook.
A reminder to all Suns fans, all you need to do is register and set your lineup in the Suns Fantasy Challenge for a chance to win $20,000 in cash prizes, as well as Suns tickets or an autographed jersey.
- Tuesday, Jan. 7: Suns at Chicago
- Wednesday, Jan. 8: Suns at Minnestoa
- Friday, Jan. 10: Suns at Memphis
- Saturday, Jan. 11: Suns at Detroit
Goran Dragic (Guard)
Dragic put up “elite-level,” all-around numbers in the month of December with averages of 20 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. His efficient outside shooting and great pick-and-roll play allow him to get into the lane with ease against most defenses. Look for him to have a big game against Memphis on January 10. With Memphis guard Tony Allen questionable with a hand injury, Dragic could near or top a 30-point game.
Marcus Morris (Forward)
Morris is playing with great confidence right now and on any given night, he can produce double digit rebounds and points. Look to insert Marcus against the T-Wolves on Jan. 8, as he will be mentally up for that game working alongside his twin Markeiff. I expect him to outplay Dante Cunningham and be a big factor in a very tough road game at the Target Center.
Markieff Morris (Forward)
Despite some inconsistency, Markieff remains a good option in Hotbox leagues for his ability to get points, rebounds and break out with a big game on any given night. I like him on Jan. 10 vs Memphis due to their lack of depth and athleticism in the frontcourt. He presents matchup problems for the struggling Grizzlies as Tayshaun Prince and Jon Leuer can be outplayed.
Miles Plumlee (Center)
Plumlee has flourished in his starting role and is approaching double/double averages for the season with 10.1 ppg, 9.2 rpg and 1.8 blocks per game. Look for him to give Chicago trouble tonight with his constant activity on the glass, combined with his aggressiveness on pick and rolls, and his ability to outrun their bigs.
PJ Tucker (Forward)
Tucker quietly has been producing solid numbers and playing great “D,” as he earns more time. He averaged 12.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 2.0 steals in four recent games and should have a nice game against Minnesota on Jan. 8. Look for Tucker to have double-digit rebounds, a surprising number of steals and to exceed his points-per-game average, as he competes against the 23rd rated defense in the NBA.
Channing Frye (Forward)
Frye is one of the most impressive stretch forwards in the NBA. With the Suns’ fast-paced offensive schemes and exceptional guard play, the perimeter is wide open for the silky smooth jumper, frequently stroked by Frye. His ability to hit open shots, combined with his rebounding (5.2 rpg) and ability to create off the dribble, makes him a very solid fantasy play this week. I like Frye against Detroit on Jan. 11 when he can deploy his exterior and interior productivity against a struggling Josh Smith and Jonas Jerebko.