Start 'em: Garrett Degnon vs. New York Atlas

The Johns Hopkins product has a shot that slices through defenses like a well-poured glass of Rebel Bourbon—sharp, quick, and impossible to ignore.

He’s got size, confidence and plenty of room to make an impact. Last season with the California Redwoods, Degnon was largely overlooked. But now, with the Carolina Chaos, he steps into an offense that’s loaded with dynamic dodgers—and suddenly, he’s the spot-up shooter they’ve been missing.

Chris Aslanian can stretch a defense, sure, but he prefers to shoot off the dodge. Degnon is different—he moves off-ball, finds space and fires it into the upper frame before the defense can blink. With Jackson Eicher, Ross Scott and Josh Zawada creating, Degnon’s going to get his looks. And when he does, they’re coming from deep.

Degnon only had one two-pointer in 2024, but all four of his goals were from 13 yards and beyond. This week, he faces an Atlas team that allowed a league-high 15 two-pointers last season. If he gets time and space, don’t be surprised if he cashes in from distance.

At 21 coins, Degnon’s priced right for a guy with legit breakout potential. One two-bomb and a couple of ground balls, and he’s already paid for himself.

Handsome, underrated and finally in the right system, Degnon’s a Start ’Em with breakout written all over him.

Sit 'em: Xander Dickson vs. Carolina Chaos

This might be the only time I fade anyone on the Atlas offense.

Dickson’s 47-coin fantasy price tag for Opening Weekend feels a bit too rich for my blood. That’s just $1 less than Jeff Teat—the most prolific scorer in the league—which places Dickson in elite fantasy company, but the matchup and offensive setup don’t quite support it.

The Atlas attack will feature Teat, Connor Shellenberger, and Dickson. Teat should draw Jack Rowlett—arguably the best cover man in the league—which could limit his ability to facilitate in settled sets. Shelly thrives as a playmaker and will be looking to feed Dickson on the backside, but the Chaos defense is built to take that away.

They return a gritty, physical core and led the PLL in defensive efficiency last season (23.8%). They also drafted Levi Verch—a rangy Canadian pole trained to erase off-ball scorers. Dickson isn’t getting clean touches here.

Yes, he scored four against Chaos last season—but Blaze Riorden didn’t play. Dickson is 0-for-6 in his career against Blaze, and with the former MVP back in net, it’s a completely different challenge.

Dickson gets a second game against the Boston Cannons on Saturday. The matchup might offer more opportunity, but Dickson’s price tag makes his upside less appealing with a tough slate ahead.

He’s still "The Slim Reaper"—but at this price, the chances of me starting him in my lineup look… well, slim.