Header Image - PICK LIKE THE PROS
PICK LIKE THE PROSLineup Lab is an advanced MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL daily fantasy lineup optimizer for Fanduel, Draftkings, and Yahoo. Pros use a DFS optimizer, so why don't you? Pick like the pros. Use the worlds most advanced projections and optimization techniques. Join today, and start winning!
start winning

Tag Archives

6 Articles

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/29/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*

The NBA starts off the week with nine games on the schedule Monday. With so many options to wade through, let’s get right down to business and examine some value plays that could be in line for big performances. Don’t forget to sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/29/18

Cameron Payne, CHI vs. GS
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,800

With Kris Dunn (knee) out for over a month, Payne will continue to start at point guard for the Bulls. Across five starts this year, he’s averaging 11 points, 2.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.8 three-pointers per contest. This game feels like a blowout in the making, but Payne should still get enough playing time to provide value, especially since the Warriors play at the eighth-fastest pace (103.6 possessions per game) in the league.

Derrick Rose, MIN vs. LAL
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $5,100

Rose has been one of the key cogs off the bench for the Timberwolves, averaging 28 minutes per contest. His 41.4 percent shooting percentage isn’t great, but he’s still averaging 14.8 points. Scoring hasn’t been his only area of value, either, with averages of 3.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists, as well. The Lakers have allowed the second-most points per game (122.2) and play at the fifth-fastest-pace (106.4), leaving Rose with a matchup to exploit.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/29/18

Wesley Matthews, DAL at SA
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $5,200

Quick, who is leading the Mavericks in scoring this season? Is it their promising rookie Luka Doncic? Maybe it’s Dennis Smith Jr., who had a 28.9 percent usage rate last year? Nope, it’s the veteran Matthews at 20 points per game. Known more for his defensive abilities, Matthews has cashed in his career-high 23.3 percent usage rate in the early going. It’s hard to imagine him keeping this up for the entire season, but he’s playing 34 minutes a game and is clearly a key part of the Mavericks’ starting lineup.

Monte Morris, DEN vs. NO
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,500

With Isaiah Thomas (hip) yet to play in a game this year, Morris has worked his way into an expanded role. He’s shown some promise, averaging 13.3 points, four rebounds, six assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.3 three-points in all three games in which he has logged at least 20 minutes. The Pelicans play at the fourth-fastest pace (106.8), which could lead to a productive outing from Morris on Monday.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/29/18

Harrison Barnes, DAL at SA
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $5,200

The Mavericks had a severe lack of talent last year, leading Barnes to average 18.9 points and 1.5 three-pointers with a 25.2 percent usage rate. Barnes was sidelined to start the season due to a hamstring injury, but is healthy now and logged 34 minutes Sunday against the Jazz. His shot has been off so far, but it’s encouraging to see him get at least 13 field goal attempts in both games. His value is mostly limited to points and rebounds, but he is still someone to consider at this reduced price.

Justise Winslow, MIA vs. SAC
FanDuel = $4,700
DraftKings = $4,200

Winslow has only played one game this season because of a hamstring issue of his own. He logged 19 minutes in that contest Saturday against the Blazers and came out of the game with no apparent ill effects. His minutes upside is limited even when he is healthy, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore him for your entry. The Heat could put up a lot of points in this game with the Kings allowing the third-most points per game (120.3) and playing at the third-fastest pace (107.3).

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/29/18

Trey Lyles, DEN vs. NO
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,300

The injury to Will Barton (groin) has opened up a little extra playing time for Lyles. He’s logged at least 20 minutes in all three games since Barton went down, averaging 9.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, three assists, and 1.3 steals. Morris certainly has the higher upside of the two key reserves for the Nuggets, but Lyles is also someone to consider if you’re looking to save money at power forward.

Ersan Ilyasova, MIL vs. TOR
FanDuel = $4,100
DraftKings = $4,100

The Bucks could be without their best player Monday as Giannis Antetokounmpo is listed as questionable due to a concussion. If he can’t play, that leaves a huge void in their offense. Ilyasova could enter the starting five if Giannis sits, which would leave him with significantly more upside than his current role off the bench. That being said, you might want to consider Ilyasova even if Giannis does play since he is one of the key parts of their second unit.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/29/18

Julius Randle, NO at DEN
FanDuel = $6,300
DraftKings = $6,200

Randle started in place of Anthony Davis (elbow) on Saturday, but he only played 19 minutes. It was a tough matchup against Rudy Gobert, which could be the main reason why he finished with just 12 points and three rebounds. Davis’ status is in doubt again Monday, potentially leaving Randle with another opportunity to start. If that’s the case, he could be a great option since he won’t have to deal with Gobert again.

Dewayne Dedmon, ATL at PHI
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,700

With Dedmon missing the start of the season due to an ankle injury, Alex Len was given a chance to start at center. He didn’t do much with his opportunity, but he has continued to start even after Dedmon’s return. It wouldn’t be surprising for him to lose the job soon, though, especially since Dedmon looked great Saturday with 13 points, 13 rebounds and five blocks against the Bulls. Facing Joel Embiid is no easy task, but Dedmon is still someone to consider if you want to go really cheap at center.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/19/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*

The NBA enters the weekend with nine games on the schedule Friday. Not only are there plenty of elite players to choose from for your lineup, but there are also a lot of value plays to consider. Don’t forget to sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/19/18

De’Aaron Fox, SAC at NO
FanDuel = $6,500
DraftKings = $6,500

The Kings didn’t have one player average at least 30 minutes per game last year but had five players log at least 30 minutes in their opener against the Jazz. Fox was one of them, finishing with 21 points, found rebounds, seven assists and three steals across 38 minutes. While it’s unlikely he’s going to play that much on a nightly basis, there is a real chance that he could see more playing time this season. This should be a high-scoring game against a Pelicans team that played at the fastest pace (101.6 possessions per game) in the league last year, potentially setting up Fox for a valuable performance.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, LAC vs. OKC
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $3,800

The Clippers badly needed to add depth to their backcourt over the summer and they did just that, with Gilgeous-Alexander being one of their prized acquisitions at 11th overall in the draft. It was encouraging to see him play 28 minutes in their opener against the Nuggets and he took advantage of his opportunity, scoring 11 points to go along with two rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block. Patrick Beverley will continue to start at point guard, but he likely won’t see a normal stater’s allotment of minutes and isn’t a great offensive player. The Clippers get to face a thin Thunder roster that could be without Russell Westbrook (knee) again, making Gilgeous-Alexander someone to consider at this cheap price.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/19/18

Buddy Hield, SAC at NO
FanDuel = $6,300
DraftKings = $5,600

Hield logged 32 minutes Wednesday and should continue to see added playing time with Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) injured. He had a balanced performance, scoring 19 points and recording six rebounds, one steal, one block, and one three-pointer. Maybe the stat that is the most exciting about his prospects for Friday is the 18 shot attempts that he had in that game Wednesday. Considering the pace at which this game will likely be played, Hield could be in line for another offensive outburst.

Rodney Hood, CLE at MIN
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $4,800

Hood played so poorly after being traded to the Cavaliers that some people forget how well he played for the Jazz at the start of last year. Across 39 games before he was traded, Hood averaged 16.8 points and 2.6 three-pointers. He attempted 14.2 shots per game with Jazz, but only 9.5 per game with the Cavaliers. Now with LeBron James in LA, Hood is in line for more scoring opportunities this season. His 12 points in their opener weren’t great, but he did attempt 13 shots and had to face a good defensive team in the Raptors. Don’t count on him for much outside of scoring, but he could still be a viable option if you want to save money at shooting guard.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/19/18

Cedi Osman, CLE at MIN
FanDuel = $6,200
DraftKings = $5,400

Osman was a trendy player to take in the later rounds of season-long drafts due to his likely expanded role this season. He provided glimpses of his upside last season by averaging 13.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.3 steals over the three games in which he played at least 30 minutes. The Cavaliers gave him 33 minutes Wednesday, resulting in him posting 17 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and two steals. The fact that it came against the Raptors is even more impressive. This might be an opportunity to take advantage of by plugging him into your lineup before his price starts to climb.

Nemanja Bjelica, SAC at NO
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $4,600

The Kings have a ton up depth up front but still decided to bring in Bjelica over the summer. They were intent on giving him extended run Wednesday and he finished the game with 18 points, eight rebounds and two assists in 27 minutes. Their top pick in the draft Marvin Bagley only played 12 minutes and veteran Zach Randolph didn’t see the floor at all. Their rotations still appear to be very much up in the air, but it might be worth taking a chance that Bjelica sees added minutes again Friday based on this matchup.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/19/18

Jerami Grant, OKC at LAC
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,100

Patrick Patterson started at power forward for the Thunder in their opener, but he only played 19 minutes and was 2-for-9 from the field. Grant wasn’t much better offensively, finishing with seven points on 2-of-7 shooting. However, he did play 29 minutes and chipped in three blocks. He’s a better defender and more athletic than Patterson is at this stage of his career, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see Grant continue to get more minutes than Patterson. If he can hit a few more shots, Grant could provide value at this price based on his ability to contribute defensively.

Ersan Ilyasova, MIL vs. IND
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,400

Bringing in Ilyasova and his ability to stretch the floor was a key move for the Bucks. He didn’t start in their opener, but he played 29 minutes and finished with 13 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and a three-pointer. With opposing defenses focusing on Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Eric Bledsoe, Ilyasova could get a lot of open looks. While Grant is also a viable cheap option, Ilyasova has the higher upside between the two.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/19/18

Myles Turner, IND at MIL
FanDuel = $6,200
DraftKings = $5,800

Turner only played 20 minutes in the Pacers first game of the season, but that was mostly because they destroyed the Grizzlies. Even with his limited playing time, Turner finished with eight points, eight rebounds and four blocks. Coming off signing a hefty contract extension, he’s clearly their main man in the middle. Expect this game to be much more competitive and for Turner to outproduce his prince point.

Alex Len, ATL at MEM
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,100

It’s hard to look as bad as the Hawks did in their first game. Playing without John Collins and Dewayne Dedmon certainly didn’t help a roster that is severely lacking talent, to begin with. They were destroyed 126-107 by the Knicks, of all teams. Len only played 21 minutes, which could partly be attributed to the score. With Collins and Dedmon both out again Friday, Len has the opportunity to get a significant workload. Across three games in which Len played at least 30 minutes last year, he averaged 17.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks.

 

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 4/4/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 4/4/18

After a busy night that included 13 games Tuesday, the NBA quiets down with just six games Wednesday. With fewer options to choose from, it’s key to find the right cheap daily fantasy basketball sleepers to hopefully help create a winning entry. Sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and find the value players that are low-owned on FanDuel and DraftKings like Anthony Tolliver and Ersan Ilyasova.

Use Code “LAB60” at checkout for 60% off Seasonal Package<

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 4/4/18

Isaiah Taylor, ATL vs. MIA
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,200

The Hawks are in full tank mode and dealing with several injuries, including the loss of Dennis Schroder (ankle) for the season. Taylor has stepped into a prominent role as a result, logging at least 29 minutes in five straight games. He’s made the most of his opportunity, averaging 16.4 points and 6.6 assists over that stretch. He just played the Heat on Tuesday, finishing with 15 points and nine assists in 38 minutes. He could provide significant value again in their rematch.

D.J. Augustin, ORL vs. DAL
FanDuel = $5,700
DraftKings = $5,800

Augustin only played 20 minutes in a blowout win Tuesday against the Knicks but he had played at least 32 minutes in four straight games. He may not be flashy, but he did average 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and 1.5 three-pointers in those four contests. The Mavericks allow the eighth-most FanDuel points per game and the sixth-most DraftKings points per game to opposing point guards, making Augustin a viable option for your entry.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 4/4/18

Josh Hart, LAL vs. SA
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $5,600

Lonzo Ball (knee) did not play Tuesday against the Jazz and the Lakers have already said they are going to take a cautious approach with his return. Unless he is completely pain-free Wednesday, don’t expect him to play. With Isaiah Thomas (hip) also out for the season, the Lakers have turned to Hart for added minutes. Hart has logged at least 26 minutes in each of the last three games, averaging 9.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.3 three-pointers. He doesn’t have a lot of offensive upside, but his above-average ability to grab rebounds as a guard still makes him someone to consider.

Ben McLemore, MEM at NO
FanDuel = $3,800
DraftKings = $3,300

It’s going to be another skeleton crew for the Grizzlies on Wednesday with Tyreke Evans (personal), Andrew Harrison (wrist), Wayne Selden Jr. (wrist) and JaMychal Green (knee) all ruled out. McLemore has played at least 23 minutes in back-to-back contests, averaging 10.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and one steal. He gets a favorable matchup against the Pelicans, who play at the third-fastest pace (102.6 possessions per game) in the league, so he might be worth the risk in tournament play based on his expanded role.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 4/4/18

Robert Covington, PHI at DET
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $6,200

Covington was well on his way to a monster performance Tuesday against the Nets but only ended up playing 26 minutes with Sixers opening up a big lead. Even in limited action, he still scored 12 points to go along with six rebounds, two assists, four steals, three blocks and four three-pointers. The Sixers were without both Joel Embiid (eye) and Dario Saric (elbow) in that game and both will sit again Wednesday. Expect Covington to see increased usage as a result, giving him tremendous upside when combined with his defensive prowess.

MarShon Brooks, MEM at NO
FanDuel = $3,900
DraftKings = $4,600

Brooks (ankle) is nursing his own injury and is listed as questionable for Wednesday. He didn’t play Sunday due to the injury but averaged a surprising 22.5 points, two assists, 1.5 steals and three three-pointers in his previous two games. If he can play Wednesday, he should get plenty of minutes with the Grizzlies’ laundry list of injured players. Keep an eye out for updates leading up to the game and get him into your lineup if he suits up. Of note, Brooks is only small forward eligible on FanDuel as he is listed as shooting guard on DraftKings.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 4/4/18

Anthony Tolliver, DET vs. PHI
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $5,500

Blake Griffin (ankle) has missed the last three games for the Pistons and isn’t scheduled to even be re-evaluated until Friday. Tolliver has taken on a prominent role in his absence, playing at least 31 minutes in all three contests. He’s provided valuable production, averaging 13.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 2.3 three-pointers per contest. His price is climbing, but it’s still low enough to warrant consideration for your entry.

Ersan Ilyasova, PHI at DET
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $5,600

Ilyasova is another player who benefits from the injuries to Embiid and Saric as he now moves into the starting lineup for the Sixers. Although he was only needed for 28 minutes Tuesday, he still managed to finish with 11 points, 13 rebounds and two three-pointers. The Pistons will be playing small with Griffin out, which fits well with Ilyasova’s skillset. He and Tolliver present two excellent value opportunities facing off against each other Wednesday.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 4/4/18

Mike Muscala, ATL vs. MIA
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,300

The Hawks tanking has led to significant playing time for Muscala, who has logged at least 25 minutes in six straight games. He played 33 minutes with Dewayne Dedmon (ribs) out Tuesday, finishing with 13 points, seven rebounds, two steals, and three three-pointers. Dedmon was a late scratch for that game and it wouldn’t be surprising if the Hawks held him out again Wednesday. If they do, Muscala could get plenty of minutes again.

Richaun Holmes, PHI at DET
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $4,300

Amir Johnson has been starting in place of Embiid, but Holmes has still played at least 22 minutes in three of the last four games. His numbers aren’t off the charts, but he averaged a respectable 11 points and five rebounds in those three contests. This certainly won’t be an easy matchup against Andre Drummond, but with only six games on the schedule Wednesday, Holmes is still someone to consider using in tournament play.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/5/18 – Value Plays

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/5/18 – Value Plays

SALE: 40% off entire NBA Seasonal Package - Coupon Code "NEWYEAR40" (including playoffs)
Use Code “NEWYEAR40” at checkout for 40% off Seasonal Package


 

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Ish Smith, DET at PHI
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $5,800

Smith has made three starts since taking over for the injured Reggie Jackson (ankle), averaging 14.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.3 points and 1.0 steal per game. His usage rate over that stretch was 23.7%, which really increases his value when you consider he averaged 31 minutes per contest. The Sixers play at the second-fastest pace (103.3 possessions per game) in the league, which should also benefit Smith on Friday. While his price is climbing, it’s still low enough to provide value in this game.

J.J. Barea, DAL vs. CHI
FanDuel = $5,900
DraftKings = $5,300

Barea continues to produce in limited playing time, averaging 12.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 8.3 assists and 1.7 three-pointers over his last six games. The Mavericks have been one of the worst offensive teams in the league this season, but have shown improvement lately by scoring at least 107 points in five of their last eight games. The Bulls aren’t nearly as bad as they were at the start of the season, but they have still allowed at least 106 points in nine of their last 11 games. Barea has upside at this price for your entry.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Justin Holiday, CHI at DAL
FanDuel = $5,900
DraftKings = $5,400

Holiday has been horrible from the field this season, shooting only 38.1%. He’s shown signs of coming out of his slump though, shooting 45% from the field over his last 10 games. Not only has he improved his shooting, but he also averaged 4.5 rebounds and 3.0 assists over that same stretch. With the Mavericks playing better offensively and the Bulls scoring at least 110 points in nine of their last 11 games, there might be more scoring in this game than you would expect. His ceiling isn’t very high, but Holiday is still a viable option to consider.

Marco Belinelli, ATL at POR
FanDuel = $3,900
DraftKings = $3,800

Belinelli continues to fly under the radar in Atlanta, but he’s averaging a solid 15.0 points and 1.9 three-pointers over his last seven games. He doesn’t provide many rebounds or assists, but he did record at least one steal in six of those seven games. His upside is limited because of his inability to contribute across the board, but that doesn’t mean he can’t provide value at this extremely cheap price.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Taurean Prince, ATL at POR
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,700

Prince is not for the faint of heart. He has shot 28.6% or less from the field in four of his last seven games, the last of which was a 2-for-14 performance Tuesday against the Suns. The good news is that it hasn’t deterred him from shooting, averaging 11.4 shot attempts per game over that stretch, which is on par with his season average. He can also contribute on the glass, grabbing at least nine rebounds in three of his last four games. He posted a double-double to go along with five assists against these same Trail Blazers on Saturday, so you may want to consider using him Friday.

Courtney Lee, NY at MIA
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,000

The Knicks are still without Tim Hardaway Jr. (leg), leaving Lee to log heavy minutes. Playing at least 34 minutes in six of his last seven games, there is no reason to believe this won’t continue until Hardaway returns. Lee is averaging career-highs in points (13.3), assists (2.8), steals (1.4) and three-pointers (1.7) per game as a result of his increased role. He was excellent in his first game against the Heat this season, scoring 17 points to go along with five rebounds, two assists, three steals and one block. The price is right to take a chance on him again in their rematch.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Ersan Ilyasova, ATL at POR
FanDuel = $5,900
DraftKings = $5,300

The Hawks are in full rebuild mode and lack talent and overall depth. Ilyasova has been one of the main beneficiaries of the rebuild, especially with their lack of size up front. He’s really stepped up his game lately, averaging 17.2 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.3 three-pointers over his last six games. He had a decent game scoring 13 points to go along with eight rebounds against the Trail Blazers on Saturday, but it could have been even better if he didn’t shoot only 5-of-15 from the field. Expect him to get plenty of playing time again Friday, so he could provide a lot of value at this price.

Frank Kaminsky, CHA at LAL
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,600

Kaminsky is the primary backup at both power forward and center for the Hornets right now, which has led to an increase in playing time. He’s made the most of the opportunity, averaging 13.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.6 three-pointers over his last eight games. He should have added opportunities to produce Friday because the Lakers play at the fastest pace (103.8) and allow the second-most points per game (111.8) in the league. If you want to take a chance on a cheap power forward in tournament play, look no further.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Jusuf Nurkic, POR vs. ATL
FanDuel = $7,500
DraftKings = $7,300

I don’t normally like to recommend someone priced this high when talking about value plays, but I really don’t like the cheap options available at center Friday. Nurkic isn’t overly expensive and I do like his upside in this game. He’s playing well right now, averaging 15.8 points, 11.3 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.5 blocks over his last four games. The Hawks struggle to defend opposing centers, allowing the fifth-most points per game on FanDuel and the fourth-most points per game on DraftKings to the position. Nurkic could be in for a big night Friday.

Marcin Gortat, WAS at MEM
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,600

The Grizzlies allow the fewest points per game to opposing centers on both FanDuel and DraftKings, so this does not look like a good matchup on the surface. However, Gortat bucked the trend in their previous meeting this season, scoring 13 points to go along with eight rebounds, three assists, and two blocks. He played 29 minutes in that game trying to match up with Marc Gasol and could play similar minutes with the lack of quality depth at center for the Wizards. If you have your mind set on saving money at center, Gortat could be a viable option.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 12/6/17 – Value Plays

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 12/6/17 – Value Plays

Get 20% off for a limited time off of NBA Seasonal Packages
Use Code “LLNBA17” at checkout for 20% off Seasonal Package
 

Lineup Lab is very excited to have started a partnership this week with Sports Illustrated to provide fantasy NBA content. Click here to find a link to Wednesday’s article appearing on SI where we break down the big 10-game slate. In today’s article on Lineup Lab, we’ll dive into the slate even deeper and take a look at only the cheaper plays of the evening that can provide you with value.

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

De’Aaron Fox, SAC at CLE
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings – $4,600

The Kings continue to throw out head-scratching rotations as no player on the team is averaging more than 26 minutes per game. The silver lining is Fox is one of three players averaging 26 minutes, so at least he gets more run than most. While not outstanding, his numbers are respectable this season as he’s averaging 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 0.9 steals per game. The Cavaliers have had their problems defending points guards this season, so Fox has the potential to be productive in this game.

Shaun Livingston, GS at CHA
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,400

The Warriors have lost star point guard Stephen Curry (ankle) for at least two weeks, leaving Patrick McCaw (nose) and Livingston to cover his minutes. McCaw has been ruled out for Wednesday’s game, leaving Livingston with a potentially big role against the Hornets. Livingston has only played at least 20 minutes in a game once this season, but he was productive with 16 points, two rebounds, six assists, and one steal. Take a chance on him Wednesday.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

E’Twaun Moore, NO vs. DEN
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,200

Moore is getting an excellent opportunity to thrive in New Orleans as he is averaging a career-high 31 minutes per game. He’s shown he can be an offensive weapon when given extended run as he is averaging 12.5 points and 1.7 three-pointers per game this season. He’s been even better of late though, scoring at least 16 points and hitting at least four three-pointers in four of his last five games. The Pelicans should be without Anthony Davis (groin) again Wednesday, leaving added shots on the table for Moore. The price is right to take a chance on him for your entry.

Malcolm Brogdon, MIL vs. DET
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,700

Speaking of frustrating rotations, Bucks coach Jason Kidd also throws out some perplexing combinations. He had played guard Jason Terry (calf) at least 18 minutes in three straight games entering Monday and it looked like it could have been four in a row had Terry not been injured in the contest. With Terry out Wednesday, Brogdon should pick up some of his minutes. With defenses having to focus on Giannis Antetokounmpo, Eric Bledsoe, and Khris Middleton, Brogdon might get a few more open looks in this game.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Bojan Bogdanovic, IND vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,800

Bogdanovic is quietly not only having the best season of his career, but he’s become a very valuable member of a Pacers team that has played better than many people expected. He’s getting an opportunity to produce as he is averaging career-highs in minutes (31) and shot attempts (10.9) per game. He’s been particularly lethal from behind the arc, shooting 44.5%. The Bulls really struggle defensively and are just a bad team in general at this point. Bogdanovic already scored 22 points and hit six three-pointers against them earlier this season, so another valuable performance may be in the works.

Dante Cunningham, NO vs. DEN
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $3,600

Cunningham has started the last two games with Anthony Davis (groin) on the shelf and has filled in admirably, averaging 9.5 points and 10.5 rebounds. He played 32 minutes in their last game Monday against the Warriors, marking only the fourth time this season that he has logged at least 30 minutes in a game. The Nuggets are also banged up with Paul Millsap (wrist) and Nikola Jokic (ankle) out, giving Cunningham a nice chance to provide value at a dirt cheap price.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Ersan Ilyasova, ATL at ORL
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $4,800

Injuries have already created added opportunity in Atlanta as several key members of the Hawks frontcourt will be out again Wednesday. Ilyasova showed what he can do with extended minutes as he scored 22 points and hit four-three pointers when he played 30 minutes in a game last week against the Cavaliers. While his last two games haven’t been great, he did just miss a double-double Saturday against the Nets. This could be a high-scoring game against a Magic team that plays at the sixth-fastest pace (102.8) in the league, so take a look at Ilyasova for your entry.

Bobby Portis, CHI at IND
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,700

Portis may be in for a reduction in play time soon as Nikola Mirotic (face) is getting close to returning. He’ll still be out Wednesday though, which is good news for Portis’ value. Portis provides an offensive punch off the bench for the Bulls as he has scored at least 10 points in four of his last six games. He had one of his best games earlier this season against these same Pacers when he scored 20 points to go along with 11 rebounds. Kris Dunn is actually the only player who plays significant minutes on the Bulls that has a higher usage rate than Portis’ 24.9%. As far as cheap options with upside go, Portis definitely makes the list Wednesday.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Mason Plumlee, DEN at NO
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $4,700

With Jokic injured, Plumlee has started both of the last two games for the Nuggets. While he only scored three points in his last game against the Dallas Mavericks, he showed his potential the prior game when he scored 12 points to go along with six rebounds and six assists Saturday against the Lakers. The Nuggets are going to need Plumlee to step up Wednesday against DeMarcus Cousins, so he could be in for significant minutes if he can stay out of foul trouble. With his passing ability, extended playing time could give him a big bump in value.

Bam Adebayo, MIA at SA
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,000

Noticing a trend here? It’s important to know which players are injured as their backups are usually priced cheap, but can provide excellent value when given an opportunity to play. Adebayo is another injury fill in as he’s playing more minutes with Hassan Whiteside (knee) sidelined. The Heat like to go small when they can with Whiteside out, but they likely won’t have that luxury Wednesday against a big Spurs front line. His upside isn’t that high, but he did record a double-double in 31 minutes earlier this season against the Timberwolves. If you’re filling out a tournament entry Wednesday, you might want to take a chance on Adebayo.

NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 8

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

Get 20% off for a limited time off of NBA Seasonal Packages
Use Code “LLNBA17” at checkout for 20% off Seasonal Package

NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 8

The NBA starts off the first full week of December with three days with at least 10 games. With 52 total games this week, it’s important to know the intricacies of the schedule to gain an advantage over your opponent in a head-to-head league as starting your best players might not always give you the best chance to win. Here are the moves you want to consider for your team based on the week ahead.

Teams With The Most Games – 4 Games Each
Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Memphis Grizzlies, Milwaukee Bucks, New Orleans Pelicans, New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, San Antonio Spurs, Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards

There are a staggering 19 teams with four games each this week, meaning you might not need as much help as you have in previous weeks this season. If you aren’t fortunate enough to have most of your players on these teams this week, consider adding the below to gain back that edge.

NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 8

Jonathon Simmons, Orlando Magic

After beginning the season as a member of the second unit, Simmons has started each of his last four games. With Terrence Ross (knee) out indefinitely, Simmons should continue to start and get big minutes. One of his four starts was a dud against the Oklahoma City Thunder, but he averaged 18.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.0 steal and 1.7 three-pointers over the other three. The Magic have four favorable matchups this week as they play the Hornets, Nuggets and the Hawks twice, all three of which are in the top half of the NBA in terms of pace of play. If you need offense, Simmons can give you a boost and is still available in 57% of Yahoo! leagues.

Ersan Ilyasova, Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks are decimated up front as they are expected to be without Dewayne Dedmon (leg) and John Collins (shoulder) for this entire week. Mike Muscala (ankle) is also without a timetable for his return, so Ilyasova should have a big role until the Hawks start to get healthy. He showed what he can do with more minutes last season as he averaged 10.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.2 three-pointers in 24 minutes per game. He could get even more playing time than that, giving him excellent value. Still available in 64% of Yahoo! leagues, you shouldn’t hesitate to pick him up if you can.

Tomas Satoransky, Washington Wizards

Tim Frazier has been starting in place of John Wall (knee), but he’s not the player you want to pick up this week. Satoransky has outplayed him to this point, averaging 12.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 1.0 three-pointers over his last three games. His scoring has increased in all three of those games as he continues to get comfortable playing extended minutes. If he continues to play this well, he’s only going to get more opportunities to produce. If you need point guard help, go get Satoransky as he’s still available in 88% of Yahoo! leagues.

Teams With The Fewest Games – 2 Games Each
Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Portland Trail Blazers

With so many teams playing four games this week, the five teams that only play two each will see their players value decrease significantly.  Consider benching the below players who would normally be in your starting lineup otherwise.

NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 8

Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles Lakers

Ball has been a killer for fantasy owners in terms of percentages as he is shooting only 31.3% from the field and 50.0% from the charity stripe. The main value he provides owners is his ability to provide all-around counting stats, but even that is hurt by his 8.7 points per game average. The Lakers have shown a tendency to bench him late in games if he’s struggling and he has now played 26 minutes or less in two of his last four games. With only two games on the schedule this week, Ball likely won’t be able to provide enough value to warrant being in your lineup.

Brandon Ingram, Los Angeles Lakers

Ingram has really improved offensively this season as not only is he averaging 16.0 points per game, but he’s shooting 46.3% from the field after shooting only 40.2% last year. He has already scored at least 20 points in a game five times this season, something he only did twice all last season. The problem for this week is that he doesn’t excel in any other area and provides little in terms of steals, blocks, and three-pointers. With only two games on the schedule, there just isn’t enough meat on the bone here to warrant starting him.

James Johnson, Miami Heat

Johnson is the opposite of Ingram as his value comes in terms of his all-around value. His scoring is down this season, but he’s averaging career-highs in rebounds (5.2) and assists (4.1) per game. He’s hit a rough patch lately, averaging 7.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists over his last three games. With Hassan Whiteside (knee) out of action for that stretch, it’s no surprise that Johnson saw a decrease in assists without one of the team’s best scoring options. With very little upside, make sure Johnson is firmly on your bench this week.