If there is one lesson that every manager can take from Round 21, it’s that breaking away from the standard team mold can pay off as almost every player in the dream team is owned by fewer than 10% of fantasy managers. One player who cashed in big from player diversity was Sam W, manager of STRAIGHT DAVIES, who scored 113 points and won the gift card to MLSstore.com. Congrats!
For those who did do well, don’t celebrate too long because Round 22 starts today! It’s also a double-game week, but the two teams who have a double are not packed with players who I think are worth bringing in. So I recommend you take the time to start thinking ahead for the byes in Round 25.
Goalkeepers
Long Bargain: With more bye rounds just on the horizon, it’s once again time to start thinking about if you’ll have adequate keeper coverage for the long run. One of the best options going forward is Brian Rowe ($5.1). Not only is Rowe available during the upcoming bye rounds but his low price, current form and upcoming schedule make him an excellent option through Round 30.
Defenders
DGW Option: A team with two home games in a round is fantasy gold, especially if they have one of the best defenses in the league. All of this is true for Toronto and if you are looking for the cheapest way into their defense, then consider Eriq Zavaleta ($6.8). He’s had some rotation with Williams, but seems to be emerging as the preferred starter and will give you a shot at clean sheet points.
Budget Risk: Over the past few rounds, Colorado’s Marlon Hairston ($5.1) has emerged as an out of position defender with a nose for the goal. While he’s yet to play a full 90 at forward, Hairston has managed to rack up two goals over his last three games and one clean sheet. He’s not always going to pay off, but his price makes him an ideal 5th defender if you like the occasional risk.
Midfielders
The Playmaker: If you’re looking for a low-cost player who has a lot of fantasy potential, then Kevin Molino ($8.8) is your man. He’s been the driving force behind Orlando’s attack and has proven that he does not need Kaká to earn points. He’ll have more chances to score this week as Orlando host a Seattle team that is averaging almost two goals allowed per game on the road.
DGW Option: Due to injuries, some of the normal midfielder options are not available during this DGW, but if you’re looking for the best option, then Javier Morales ($10.8) is your man. Morales has shown signs of improving form over his last two games with a goal and an assist so getting him now could pay off if his streak continues.
Early Adopter:
If you’ve been wondering if
Nicolas Lodeiro
($11.5) is worth his high fantasy price tag, then you’re not alone. There are no official points from his first game, but after watching, I think he would have earned 6 - 9. This total could have been higher as Lodeiro was inches from a couple of assists, a goal, and is also on set plays. Even with this, I’d say wait one more week and bring him in for Seattle’s home run starting in Round 23.
Forwards
Must Have: After two strong rounds Sebastian Giovinco ($13.4) seems like a no-brainer, and that’s because he is. He’s on my list this week because I think he should be on every team. His ownership numbers, and percentage of teams who make him their captain, are so high that the risk of falling behind other managers for not having him is greater than the gains you can make with a differential. This is especially true with a DGW. So if you don’t have him, rip off the band aid and get him.
On Form: If you are looking for a low-cost and on-form forward who could score big this round, then look to Cyle Larin ($9.6). Over his last three games, he’s scored a goal in each one. This run has helped increase his average to almost seven points per 90 minutes played and Seattle should offer the chance for more goals.
These are the players who I think are worth investing in for Round 22, who are you targeting? Post your thoughts in the comments below and if you are interested in more charts and tips, check out the latest posts over at MLS Fantasy Boss and advice from the other MLS Fantasy Experts.
