The highly anticipated Round 5 clash between the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and the Newcastle Knights is set to be a thrilling encounter, and Draftstars Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) players will be closely analyzing player performances and projections to gain an edge in their contests. With both teams eager to solidify their position early in the 2025 NRL season, this matchup presents a variety of DFS opportunities across key positions.
As the Bulldogs and Knights prepare to face off, it is crucial to assess team form, individual player statistics, and potential game scripts to make informed DFS lineup decisions. The Bulldogs have shown resilience in the early rounds, displaying a structured attacking approach complemented by an improving defensive unit. Meanwhile, the Knights have also started strong, with their high-energy style and potent attacking weapons making them a dangerous opponent.
One of the key aspects of DFS strategy is identifying high-value players based on matchup advantages, player form, and projected game involvement. This article will analyze the top players from each team, their DFS prospects, and potential value picks who could provide an edge in Draftstars contests.
The battle in the halves will be crucial in determining the flow of the game. For the Bulldogs, Matt Burton remains the chief playmaker and a premium DFS option. His ability to control the game with his kicking, offloading skills, and goal-kicking prowess makes him a high-ceiling player. Expect Burton to be heavily involved in playmaking duties, accumulating points through try assists, field position kicks, and line break involvement.
For the Knights, Jackson Hastings continues to be a steady influence, orchestrating the attack with his vision and game management. While he may not have the same explosive DFS upside as Burton, his consistency in accumulating base stats through kicking meters and try assists makes him a viable selection. His halves partner, Tyson Gamble, adds an element of unpredictability and could be a contrarian DFS pick.
Kalyn Ponga remains one of the premier DFS selections across all positions. His ability to break tackles, set up tries, and score points in multiple ways makes him a must-consider player. The Knights’ fullback thrives in open play and against a Bulldogs defense that has struggled at times against dynamic runners, Ponga could be in for a high-scoring outing.
Jacob Kiraz is an intriguing option from the Bulldogs’ backline. His strong carries, ability to bust tackles, and involvement in set plays make him a solid DFS consideration. With the Bulldogs relying on him to finish attacking movements, Kiraz has a high upside if he can get over the try line.
Another outside back to watch is Dane Gagai, whose experience and ability to accumulate run meters make him a strong play. His attacking involvement remains high, and he has shown consistency in accumulating points through line breaks and offloads.
The Bulldogs’ forward pack will look to establish dominance early, with Max King and Tevita Pangai Junior being key figures. King’s work rate in defense and his ability to generate tackle points make him a solid DFS cash game option. Meanwhile, Pangai Junior is a boom-or-bust pick, capable of producing massive scores if he dominates the opposition forwards.
For the Knights, Daniel Saifiti and Tyson Frizell remain integral to their forward efforts. Saifiti’s strong carries and tackle counts make him a reliable DFS asset, while Frizell’s ability to create second-phase play and defensive work rate provide additional upside. If the Knights get an early lead, expect Frizell to be heavily involved in both attack and defense.
Reed Mahoney is one of the most reliable hookers in DFS, given his defensive workload and ability to generate points through attacking involvement. He remains a strong selection due to his high tackle count and occasional attacking opportunities.
On the Knights’ side, Phoenix Crossland has stepped up in his role as a starting hooker, providing consistency in defense and solid service to his halves. While not as dynamic as Mahoney, he offers value as a lower-priced DFS option.
DFS contests often come down to finding value picks who can exceed their price point. Some potential under-the-radar selections for this matchup include:
- Jacob Preston (Bulldogs): A workhorse in the second row, Preston has shown an ability to accumulate base stats through tackles and hit-ups. If he gets attacking opportunities, he could provide excellent value.
- Leo Thompson (Knights): A rising talent in the forward pack, Thompson’s defensive work and impact off the bench could make him a budget-friendly DFS play.
- Josh Addo-Carr (Bulldogs): If the Bulldogs get on the front foot, Addo-Carr’s speed on the edge could lead to multiple scoring opportunities, making him a high-upside tournament option.
- Bradman Best (Knights): If Newcastle can dominate possession, Best’s physicality and line-breaking ability could translate into a strong fantasy score.
Understanding potential game flow is key to maximizing DFS performance. If the Bulldogs control possession and dominate field position, their forwards and playmakers like Burton and Mahoney will likely post strong scores. Conversely, if the Knights establish early momentum, Ponga and their attacking forwards could rack up points through attacking stats.
Weather conditions should also be monitored, as wet conditions may favor a more forward-dominated contest with fewer expansive attacking plays. If conditions are dry, expect the Knights’ outside backs to thrive, while the Bulldogs may lean on their structured attack through Burton and Kiraz.