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NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/14/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner* 

With 11 games in the NBA on Wednesday, many of the best players in the league will be in action. In order to fit some of them into your DFS entry, you’ll need to find the right mix with cheap value plays. Here are some of the better options to consider when crafting your lineup. 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 11/14/18

Collin Sexton, CLE at WAS
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,000

Sexton might still have a lot of developing to do, but he’s shown promise while filling in as the starting point guard with George Hill (shoulder) out. Across three games since assuming the role, Sexton is averaging 17 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. The key is that he has logged at least 34 minutes in each of those contests, something that likely won’t change Wednesday based on the limited depth behind him. The Wizards play at the seventh-fastest pace (103.4 possessions per game), so that could afford Sexton with even more opportunities to provide value.

D.J. Augustin, ORL vs. PHI
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,700

Augustin has started all 14 games for the Magic this year and isn’t going to lose that job anytime soon. Not only do they have no viable options behind him, but he’s averaged a respectable 10.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per contest. In his first game against the Sixers this year, Augustin finished with nine points, three rebounds and nine assists. Considering the Sixers play at the sixth-fastest pace (103.6), Augustin could be a viable option in tournament play for their rematch.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/14/18

Terrence Ross, ORL vs. PHI
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $5,000

Ross continues to lead the Magic’s second unit with a 24 percent usage rate. In fact, the only two players on the team with higher usage rates are both starters in Evan Fournier (26.1 percent) and Nikola Vucevic (25.3 percent). Ross is also averaging a whopping six three-point attempts per contest, which has helped him post 13.8 points and 2.3 three-pointers a night. With the potential for this game to be played at a faster pace than the Sixers are accustomed to, Ross could be in line for another valuable offensive outing.

J.R. Smith, CLE at WAS
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,000

The Cavaliers are running out of healthy players, so they’ve had to turn to a familiar face in Smith to cover some of the extra available minutes. Never one to shy away from taking shots, Smith has scored at least 13 points in four of his last five games. It hasn’t been just about scoring for Smith, though, who is also averaging 2.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.6 steals during that five-game stretch. The Wizards are allowing the most points per game (118.5), making Smith a potential bargain at this price.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/14/18

Jae Crowder, UTA at DAL
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $5,200

Crowder continues to thrive off the bench for the Jazz, averaging 14 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists. His 69.6 percent shooting from the charity stripe leaves a lot to be desired, but that’s more a season-long fantasy concern than it is in DFS. In his first two games against the Mavericks this season, Crowder averaged 14.5 points and six rebounds, almost exactly in line with his overall marks for the year. His upside might not be off the charts, but he also has a relatively high floor for a player at this price.

Jeff Green, WAS vs. CLE
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,200

The Wizards are finally healthy, but that hasn’t stopped Green from being a valuable part of their second unit. Actually, he’s averaging 14.6 points and six rebounds over his last five games. He may not get a ton of shots, but he’s been extremely efficient by shooting 51 percent from the floor and 96.9 percent from the charity stripe. In a matchup against his former team that is currently decimated by injuries, Green is an intriguing option in tournament play.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/14/18

Al-Farouq Aminu, POR at LAL
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $4,900

The Blazers don’t count on Aminu to score much, leaving him with a paltry 11.9 percent usage rate. However, he’s still managed to average 8.5 points per contest. Add that to his 8.7 rebounds a game and he’s a nightly threat to at least approach a double-double. This is a good matchup for him against a Lakers team that deploys a lot of small lineups and plays at the third-fastest pace (105.6). The last time these two teams met, Aminu had four points, 13 rebounds, two steals and two blocks.

Derrick Favors, UTA at DAL
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $4,600

Favors was forced to play extra minutes last season with Rudy Gobert out for an extended period of time, but with Gobert healthy, Favors is back to playing just 23 minutes a game this year. That hasn’t stopped him from being productive, though, with averages of 11.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks. The Mavericks have improved their overall roster, but Favors is a tough matchup for them at power forward. When these two teams played each other last week, Favors finished with 13 points, six rebounds, two steals, and three blocks.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/14/18

Tristan Thompson, CLE at WAS
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $5,800

With Kevin Love (toe), Sam Dekker (ankle) and Cedi Osman (back) all out, the Cavaliers have been forced to play Larry Nance Jr. more at power forward. That’s left Thompson to handle the bulk of the time at center, resulting in him playing at least 28 minutes in each of his last four games. He hasn’t let those minutes go to waste, averaging 15.5 points and 16 rebounds a contest.

Jonas Valanciunas, TOR vs. DET
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $5,000

Valanciunas has bounced in and out of the starting five based on matchups, but this looks like an instance where he’ll start against Andre Drummond. Even though Valanciunas is still only averaging 22 minutes a game as a starter, he’s posted 13.2 points, eight rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per contest in that role. Thompson has the higher upside, but Valanciunas is also someone to consider who comes at an even cheaper price.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/27/18

by Austyn Varney 0 Comments
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/27/18

*Austyn Varney*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/27/18

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/6/18. Put the picks into our lineup optimizer and generate lineups. Find out how to create your own floors and ceilings in Mike’s new videos on our Facebook Group. If you need any help in fantasy or just want to come join in on the fun we highly recommend requesting a join. 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 George Hill and Patrick Patterson.

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

Point Guard

Quinn Cook
FD $6,000 DK $5,900

We’ll kick things off Golden State with Quinn Cook. He struggled when first handed the starting gig, but has flipped that to the extreme and is dominating on a nightly basis. Curry is going to miss all the way through the first round of the playoffs, so Cook is going to have a cemented role on this team and it’s not going anywhere. He’s been over 34 minutes in 3 of the last 5 games and has come through with 30+ fantasy points in 5 of those 5. He now sees a match-up with the Pacers, who rank 22nd against the point guard position and haven’t improved since the break (26th). Cook is going to have another productive night and the $6k price tag isn’t a worry for me. Let’s go a little cheaper.

Yogi Ferrell
FD $3,900 DK $4,200

Maybe this isn’t the place, but I just want an explanation as to why J.J. Barea misses what seems like 40 games a season and none of them are ever for the same reason. Get yourself together, dude. Either way, he’s out again tonight and Yogi Ferrell will draw the obvious benefit. Already seeing 25 or so minutes a night, this will put him around the 35 number. His price is fair on both sites and you’re looking for 25 fantasy points in cash games. Against De’Aaron Fox defense, that really shouldn’t be so hard. Ferrell isn’t anything special when on the floor, but he’s average 1.13 fantasy points per minute. He’s a great play in all formats and I like Quinn Cook just a tad bit more with the prices considered.

Shooting Guard

Nick Young
FD $4,800 DK $4,800

Young is going to continue seeing huge minutes with Klay Thompson out. He’s been over 30 minutes in 5 of the last 6 games and has been over 36 in 4 of them. 40+ in 2 of them. He’s not the most consistent player when on the floor and he is rather reliant on his jumper, so you can’t be too comfortable in cash games. With that being said, he can go for 40 on any night and it doesn’t really matter who he’s facing. Tonight, it’s the Pacers. They rank 22nd against shooting guards and play fast. Perfect for Swaggy P. His price has risen, but he’s still a value on both sites and a good play in all formats. Let’s move up the price range a little bit.

Eric Gordon
FD $5,600 DK $7,200

Eric Gordon is a tiny bit expensive for a value article, but he’s going to be one of the more popular plays on this slate and rightfully so. He’s going to draw the start for resting James Harden and figures to grab an extra 5-10 shots and minutes. There will be plenty available and we know Gordon has no reservations about shooting a ton. He matches up with a Bulls squad that rank 25th against the position. With a 220 total, there are plenty of fantasy points to go around and we know Gordon is going to get over 30. He’s a lock in both my cash games and tournaments, but do understand the fade for other Rockets.

Small Forward

Joe Johnson and Gerald Green
FD $3,500 – $3,700 DK $3,800 – $4,700

These 2 guys have already been picking up 25-32 minutes a game, so this injury news on the Rockets isn’t just about minutes for these guys. I’m sure they’ll each grab a few minutes with Harden, Mbah a Moute, and Capela all out, but it’s more about the shots up for grab now. With Harden out, you know both Gerald Green and Joe Johnson are going to have some fun when the ball is in their hands. Much like a guy like Michael Beasley, they are automatic production with the ball in their hands. It’s not necessarily good for the team, but these Rockets are good enough to overcome some me-ball from Johnson and Green. I honestly love both and will have a ton of exposure in all formats. This Rockets squad is the top value on the day and these guys are right in the center of it. Still cheap on both sites, don’t be afraid to plug either of those guys into your lineup.

David Nwaba
FD $4,800 DK $4,700

Here’s what we’re working with. Nwaba is currently picking up 25 minutes a night. Denzel Valentine is questionable. If Valentine is in, Nwaba is a nominal play at 25 minutes. He’s fine in cash, but doesn’t blow anyone away. Now if Valentine sits, we’ve seen the Bulls play Nwaba upwards of 35-40 minutes. He is productive when on the floor and has the ability to put up 40 fantasy points with ease. The match-up with Houston is a great one, as it’ll be guys like Gerald Green and Joe Johnson covering him. Ariza and Paul will be on the better players. Nwaba is just under $5k on both sites and one of the top plays in all formats if Valentine is out. Pay attention on Twitter and make sure Valentine is ruled out before plugging Nwaba in everywhere.

Power Forward

NEW ORLEANS, LA – OCTOBER 03: Cheick Diallo #13 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives against Nikola Mirotic #44 of the Chicago Bulls during the second half of a game at the Smoothie King Center on October 3, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

Cheick Diallo
FD $4,300 DK $4,000

We start off with a very contingent Cheick Diallo at power forward. With Nikola Mirotic out last game, Diallo picked up 25 minutes and put up 34 fantasy points. 30 of those fantasy points came in 14 minutes in the 2nd half. Wow. He has a ton of upside in the right spot and is safe if given the opportunity. Tonight, Nikola Mirotic is questionable and it all depends on his status. If Miro is out, Diallo is going to pick up 25 minutes again and makes sense in all formats. If he plays, I have no interest in Diallo at all.

Tarik Black
FD $3,500 DK $3,000

Along with Harden, Clint Capela is going to take a rest tonight. He plays 26-30 minutes on most nights and is a huge interior presence for this team. The two candidates to take his minutes are Nene Hilario and Tarik Black. Hilario is where you assume they go, but he’s old and coming off of injury. The point of this game is to rest the team, not put an old man right back on the injury report. That’s why I suspect it’ll be the youngin Tarik Black, who won’t touch the floor in the playoffs. He could easily pick up 25 minutes tonight against Felicio and post a quick double-double. I’ll be way over the field at 50% and don’t hate dieing on this branch. As a worst-case scenario, he sees 20 minutes and put up 15 fantasy points. Best case is 26 minutes and 30-35 FP. He’s minimum around the industry and an elite play because of it.

Center

Kosta Koufos
FD $3,800 DK $4,400

There’s only one center I have much love for under $6k. Koufos picked up 32 and 25 minutes over the last two games and has been excellent in both. The 55 fantasy points a few nights ago is obviously lofty expectations, but that isn’t what we need. He’s around $4k on both sites and you only really need 20 to make you extremely happy. The Kings are one of the weakest interiors in all of the league and Koufos won’t have trouble when in there. Expect another 20-25 fantasy points and don’t be surprised if he gets up to that 30 mark. Good luck tonight and comment below with any questions!

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/20/18

by Austyn Varney 0 Comments

*Austyn Varney*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/20/18

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/6/18. Put the picks into our lineup optimizer and generate lineups. Find out how to create your own floors and ceilings in Mike’s new videos on our Facebook Group. If you need any help in fantasy or just want to come join in on the fun we highly recommend requesting a join. 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 George Hill and Patrick Patterson.

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

Point Guard

Yogi Ferrell
FD $4,900 DK $5,300

According to Rick Carlisle, Dennis Smith Jr. is going to “miss some games”. Whatever that means. For a team that’s tanking, it’s just counting down the days until the season is over. In the meantime, you can look towards Yogi Ferrell. He’s already seeing 30 minutes a night and should get close to 40 here. The match-up is impeccable against a Pelicans team that sits 28th against the point guard position. We also have a questionable J.J. Barea. If he misses, Kyle Collinsworth would be forced into 25 minutes and be a good play. For now, Yogi Ferrell is one of the more reliable options at any price point on the slate.

Tyler Dorsey
FD $3,500 DK $3,700

At point guard, Yogi Ferrell really is the cheapest I’m comfortable going in cash games. With that being said, tournaments are a different story and I have a lot of interest in Tyler Dorsey. He’s been picking up 25-28 minutes in most games and typically produces. On the season, he’s sitting at 0.98 fantasy points per minute. He now draws at a match-up against a Jazz squad that ranks 18th against the PG position. His price is sitting extremely low in the mid-$3k’s and you’re only needing 20 in cash games. I don’t think he’s necessary in cash games, but you can pay up at a few other spots in a tournaments and use him. Personally, he’s in about 25% of my lineups.

Shooting Guard

Troy Daniels
FD $3,800 DK $3,900

Daniels played 28 minutes last game without Devin Booker and put up 29 fantasy points. He put up 18 points from the field and sprinkles in 6 combined peripherals. He’s always going to be a tad bit reliant on his jumper, but has a lethal one and can get hot from behind the arc. The match-up with Detroit isn’t ideal, but they rank 23rd against the SG position, so it could be a whole lot worse. If Booker plays, I’ll be ignoring the situation as a whole. If Booker is out, Troy Daniels is a viable cash game punt at a weaker SG position.

Kyle Collinsworth
FD $3,600 DK $3,600

If you’re not a fan of Troy Daniels or just want to go elsewhere, Kyle Collinsworth is pretty interesting. He’s picked up 17-25 minutes in each of the last 3 games and now see Dennis Smith Jr. out. He should get up to at least that 25-minute mark and his price is low enough to play in all formats. It’s hard to trust a guy that isn’t guaranteed any minutes, but it’s what you’re signing up for when you want to pay down at shooting guard. I definitely prefer Daniels and will play him in any format, while Collinsworth is more of a tournament option. Let’s get to small forward.

Small Forward

Maurice Harkless
FD $4,000 DK $4,000

Small forward isn’t the greatest spot to reach for value. There are a few different ways to go, but I’ll probably be doing my best to get to the mid-range. If you do need to pay down, Maurice Harkless is your best bet. Seeing 25+ minutes s night, he’s put up 30+ fantasy points in 2 of the last 3 games. He doesn’t mind being a big part of this offense and has gone on red-hot streaks before. Harkless is insanely cheap at $4k and will need you just about 20 to make you happy in cash games. We know the Rockets love playing fast and Harkless excels in the open floor. Give him a go in all formats and don’t worry about him being the reason you lose.

Doug McDermott
FD $3,500 DK $3,500

McDermott saw 41 minutes last game, so you have to take interest in him at the price. He definitely doesn’t produce like you would want, but he can get hot from behind the line and get to 25 fantasy points. He faces off with a Pelicans squad that ranks 23rd against the SF position. They give up the 4th most 3-pointers in all of the league and have played at the 2nd fastest PACE since the All-Star Break. Book him for 15 fantasy points and 35 minutes. It’s not safe, or fun, but he’ll help you pay up elsewhere and shouldn’t hurt you too badly. Let’s get to some big guys.

Power Forward

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – FEBRUARY 14: Jae Crowder #99 of the Utah Jazz brings the ball up court against the Phoenix Suns during a game at Vivint Smart Home Arena on February 14, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)

Jae Crowder and Jonas Jerebko
FD $5,400 – $3,500 DK $4,600 – $3,300

The two starting PF’s have been ruled out in this game and we’re going to look at a couple guys from the game. Let’s start on the sugar side. With Derrick Favors out, that adds 25-ish minutes to these two guys. With my math, we should see Crowder around 35 and Jerebko 24-28. At the bare minimum price, I don’t think Jerebko will ever hurt you in this spot. Crowder is more expensive, but a lock for 25 with 40+ upside. The Hawks are one of the weakest interiors in all of the league and can be targeted at will with skilled bigs. Both of these guys will make a big impact when in the game and I really like both in either format.

Center

Alex Len
FD $3,900 DK $3,700

The low-end of center is never very good. Tonight is no different. If Tyson Chandler ends up missing, Alex Len should grab 20-25 minutes and faces off with a weak Pistons interior. Because of Andre Drummond, his size is going to be very necessary for the Suns to at least grab some rebounds. He’s been pretty frustrating on this season, but we know Len is a guy that can pick up 30 fantasy points on any given night. This game does hold a 210+ over/under, so Vegas expect there to be plenty of scoring to go around. The Pistons rank 18th against the C position and Len won’t have any problem putting up numbers when in the game. It’s just a matter of actually getting in there.

Aron Baynes
FD $3,70 DK $3,500

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/13/18

by Austyn Varney 0 Comments

*Austyn Varney*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/13/18

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/6/18. Put the picks into our lineup optimizer and generate lineups. Find out how to create your own floors and ceilings in Mike’s new videos on our Facebook Group. If you need any help in fantasy or just want to come join in on the fun we highly recommend requesting a join. 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 George Hill and Patrick Patterson.

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

Point Guard

George Hill
FD $4,700 DK $5,100

Welcome to NBA Tuesday! We have 11 games on our hands tonight with a whole lot to look at. With that being said, there are certainly a few spots to focus on. The Cavaliers are probably the biggest of which. Facing off with the Phoenix Suns, we are going to touch on a ton of them. You can also play the more expensive guys like LeBron and Nance Jr. Let’s start with George Hill, who’s made himself into a huge part of this offense. He’s picking up 30+ minutes on most nights and has averaged 1.16 FP per minute while on the floor. His price is still very fair on both sites around $5k and you’re only needing 25 fantasy points. The Suns have ranked 25th against PG’s on the season and 28th since Payton joined the squad. Hill is a lock at the price and a great way to pay up elsewhere.

Emmanuel Mudiay
FD $4,900 DK $5,000

If you’re not a fan of Hill because you already have enough Cavs or for whatever reason, Emmanuel Mudiay is a very solid option. I think some may look at him as risky, but I have to disagree. If you look at his last 5 games, he’s been under 25 minutes just once and has been over 30 twice. Unlike Burke, Mudiay may have a real future in this league as a prominent PG. Remember, he was drafted just 3 years back as a top 5 pick. He’s not just a shooter who doesn’t get anyone else involved and puts up big numbers. Mudiay isn’t as explosive, but he stuffs the stat sheet and is very safe when given the opportunity. the Mavs are an extremely underwhelming offense and DSJ is the last PG I’m scared of with the size of Mudiay. I’ll have him in both cash games and tournaments, but do like George Hill in a vacuum just a bit more.

Shooting Guard

Jordan Clarkson and J.R. Smith
FD $3,700 – $4,600 DK $4,000 – $5,200

We’re right back to this Cavaliers squad with another 2 very solid value plays. When a team like the Cavs is facing the Suns and has a 230 total with just a 7 point spread, you’re forced to focus on the game. When you add the fact that Rodney Hood is doubtful, these 2 guys can’t at all be ignored. Let’s start with Jordan Clarkson. His only concern is minutes. If Hood is eventually ruled out, it’s safe to assume 25+ mins and easy value. He will be in 100% of my cash games if Hood is ruled out. You then get to J.R. Smith. He’s always volatile and reliant on his jumper, but I think you have to live with that against the Suns. As long as he’s not ice cold, he will get open shots and plenty of them. He’s jumped between 25 and 35 minutes all of this month and should be locked into the higher end if Hood is eventually ruled out. You can play Korver, too, but I personally hate this match-up as they prefer him in halfcourt games where he can separate the defense and get some off-ball attention away from Lebron. For me, Clarkson will be in every lineup and J.R. won’t be far behind. That’s only if Rodney Hood is out as we expect.

Norman Powell
FD $3,700 DK $3,200

If you need to pay way down, Normal Powell has picked up 21, 28, and 31 minutes over the last 3 games. It’s far from exciting and I’ll be on J.R. Smith over him, but it’s an option if you’re off the Cavs. Powell has shown upside plenty of times and has averaged just under 1 FP per minute on the season. If he gets 25-40, he should hit value at that garbage price. He gets to face off with the Brooklyn Nets, so there’s no better match-up for a guy that thrives on running the floor and creating mismatches. Powell isn’t going to be on more than 2 or 3 of my teams, but he’s far better than anyone else under the J.R. Smith price tag. Take that for what you will.

Small Forward

Oct 15, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Nemanja Bjelica (88) dribbles the ball past Miami Heat forward James Johnson (16) during the second quarter at KFC! YUM Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports

Nemanja Bjelica
FD $5,800 DK $6,200

We’re getting a little expensive here, but I just don’t like any value here at SF. LeBron is the guy everyone wants and we will all be trying our best to get there. Bjelica is my 2nd favorite at the position. Let’s just look at the last 3 games to see why. 40 minutes, 40 minutes, and 45 minutes. He’s put up 40 fantasy points in 2 straight games and has had no problem taking some big shots. He’s a big part of this team at this point and will get a lot of minutes in the playoffs after this stretch. Tonight, he sees a Wizards squad that ranks 27th against small forwards. He’s fairly priced on both sites and I’m a fan in all formats. The minutes are a lock and there’s only so bad you can be in 40+ minutes of this match-up.

Rudy Gay
FD $4,400 DK $4,800

Like I said, the value here is pretty weak. Full disclosure, I’m doing my best to get Nemanja Bjelica and LeBron in every lineup. It’s a limb I’m looking to die on tonight. With that being said, ic an appreciate Rudy Gay and his value in the mid-$4k’s. Seeing 22+ minutes a night, you can at least guarantee 15 FP. It’s not great, but better than anyone else in this pricing range. We know the upside Gay has if given the minutes, so I don’t hate him in tournaments. The match-up with Orlando is fine, ranking 22nd against the position since the ASB. I don’t love the spot and won’t be going here myself, but Gay is my favorite way to pay down if I had to.

Power Forward

Cleveland Cavaliers’ Jeff Green, right, drives against Houston Rockets’ Ryan Anderson in the first half of an NBA basketball game, Saturday, Feb. 3, 2018, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

Jeff Green
FD $3,800 DK $3,900

I gave you a position off from the Cavs at SF, because, well, we know what to do there with the Cavs. We’re now to PF and right back at it. On the high-end, Larry Nance Jr. is one of the top plays on the entire night. With Tristan Thompson still out, he’s locked into minutes and Lebron loves playing with him. If you want to get cheaper, Jeff Green is a very solid option. I don’t think he’s a very good basketball player, but it doesn’t really matter if he’s going to get the minutes. He loves shooting the ball and I guess he’s going to keep doing so until they start going in. The Suns give up as many open 3’s as anyone in the league and he’s far more athletic than any of the big men that Phoenix will throw his way. The price is insanely low on both sites and you’re only needing 15-20 in cash games. That shouldn’t be tough at all in this match-up.

Patrick Patterson
FD $3,600 DK $3,300

This just hinges on Steven Adams. Adams went into yesterday questionable and then hurt his hip after 20 minutes of court time. You can’t expect them to toss him out the next night against the lowly Hawks. Patterson picked up 20 minutes for the 3rd straight game and you can definitely expect 30 if Adams happens to miss. Especially against a Hawks team that he can use his perimeter work against. Dewayne Dedmon has trouble leaving the paint and Westbrook will love to stretch the floor and create open driving lanes. He’s too cheap on both sites and one of my favorite plays on the slate if Adams is ruled out. I like Jerami Grant, too, but don’t think his minutes are impacted as much by Steven Adams.

Center

Tyson Chandler
FD $4,300 DK $4,500

We’ve touched on a lot of Cavs up to this point, but have managed to ignore the Suns. Devin Booker is one of the best plays on the slate and will be on most of my teams. Elfrid Payton and Dragan Bender are interesting, too. I just liked other guys a bit more. Now at center, we can look at Tyson Chandler. With Thompson out, the Cavs struggle with size. Chandler might not be great at this point, but his size is still there and he’s good at using it. If it stays close and he gets minutes, count on a small double-double. Personally, I want Jokic and Howard at center. I won’t be on Tyson Chandler myself, but he’s just a very solid punt play that can put up 25 FP if things break his way. Full disclosure, I’m looking to pay up at this position by using guys we’ve touched on throughout the article. Good luck tonight!

 

 

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 2/23/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 2/23/18

Friday brings a packed night in the NBA with 11 games on the schedule. There are a ton of options to sift through as a result, so it’s key to find the right cheap daily fantasy basketball sleepers that could help you 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 Andrew Harrison and Alex Len.

 

Use Code "LABWP50" at checkout for 50% off Seasonal Package
Use Code “LABWP50” at checkout for 50% off Seasonal Package
 

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 2/23/18

J.J. Barea, DAL at LAL
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,400

Barea continues to have a significant role with the Mavericks as his 24.7% usage rate is second-highest on the team. He played well in his last game against the Lakers, scoring 10 points to go along with nine assists and one steal in just 24 minutes. The Lakers play at the fastest pace (103.1 possessions per game) in the league, which leaves Barea with an added ability to be productive even in limited playing time.  He also has a high ceiling if he can approach 30 minutes, making him someone to consider for your entry.

Andrew Harrison, MEM vs. CLE
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,300

Harrison played well while the Grizzlies were resting Tyreke Evans as they attempted to trade him, possibly earning himself a bigger role even though Evans has now returned. Harrison played 33 minutes in the Grizzlies’ last game against the Thunder, scoring 28 points and hitting five three-pointers. Evans was excellent in that game as well, which is a good sign for Harrison moving forward. Wayne Seldon Jr. (knee) has already been ruled out Friday and Mario Chalmers (ankle) is listed as questionable, so Harrison should get enough playing time to provide value at this cheap price.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 2/23/18

Nicolas Batum, CHA at WAS
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $5,700

Batum is clearly one of the secondary offensive options on the Hornets behind Kemba Walker and Dwight Howard. He doesn’t need to score a ton to provide value though because of his ability to contribute across the board. Thursday’s game against the Nets was a prime example as he only scored 10 points, but chipped in five rebounds, seven assists, one steal, one block and two three-pointers. Don’t be afraid to take a chance on him again Friday.

J.R. Smith, CLE at MEM
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,600

The Cavaliers drastically changed their roster at the trade deadline, but Smith has played at least 29 minutes in all three games since the new players arrived. He’s made a case to continue to have a significant role on the team, averaging 16.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.0 steal and 3.0 three-pointers during that stretch. Although his minutes may eventually decline as the new players get acclimated to the team, Smith’s value in the short term should still hold. At this price, he might be worth the risk if you want to save money at shooting guard.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 2/23/18

Bojan Bogdanovic, IND vs. ATL
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,500

Bogdanovic is having his best month of the season, averaging 18.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.0 steal and 2.8 three-pointers in six games. He also has a 20.1% usage rate in February, higher than any other month this season. Friday brings a great matchup against the Hawks, who allow the most points per game on FanDuel and the second-most points per game on DraftKings to opposing small forwards. His upside isn’t extremely high since he doesn’t provide much outside of scoring, but he can still provide value Friday.

Kelly Oubre Jr., WAS vs. CHA
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,500

Oubre is not a consistent offensive player, scoring seven points or less in three of his last eight games. He is still one of the Wizards primary weapons off the bench though and has grabbed at least five rebounds in four of his last six games. He has upside when his shot is falling, evident by his performance Thursday against the Cavaliers when he scored 17 points and hit three three-pointers. If Oubre was consistent offensively, he wouldn’t be priced this low. Based on the significant amount of playing time he receives off the bench and his potential ceiling, he is a viable option to consider.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 2/23/18

Marcus Morris, BOS at DET
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $5,400

The Celtics were quiet at the trade deadline with the only move they made being the signing of Greg Monroe after he was bought out by the Suns. They still don’t have a lot of great offensive weapons outside of Kyrie Irving, leaving Morris as one of their better scorers. His usage rate of 22.6% isn’t overly impressive, but it is second highest on the team. Morris is averaging 12.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.8 three-pointers in five February games and could provide value again Friday.

Jae Crowder, UTA vs. POR
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,500

Crowder’s brief tenure with the Cavaliers was a disaster, so things could only go up from there. He’s showed early signs that the change of scenery has been beneficial, averaging 14.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.0 steal and 2.0 three-pointers in three games with the Jazz. He averaged 29 minutes during that stretch as well, which is almost four minutes more than he was averaging in Cleveland. Expect him to have an increased role moving forward, which makes him someone to consider at this cheap price.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 2/23/18

Dewayne Dedmon, ATL at IND
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $5,700

Dedmon is expected to stay in the starting lineup for the time being, which is a big boost for his value. In 24 starts this season, he is averaging 11.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. He is also averaging 25 minutes per game as a starter compared to only 21 minutes per game off the bench. Friday brings a favorable matchup against the Pacers, who allow the third most points per game on both FanDuel and DraftKings to opposing centers. As long as he sticks in the starting lineup, he’s a viable option for your entry.

Alex Len, PHO vs. LAC
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,800

Len hasn’t always received consistent playing time this season but could be in line for an expanded role Friday with Tyson Chandler (neck) doubtful to play. Chandler didn’t play in the team’s last game before the break against the Jazz either, which resulted in Len logging 38 minutes. Len took full advantage of the opportunity, scoring 14 points to go along with seven rebounds, five blocks, and three steals. The Suns are going to need his size to battle with DeAndre Jordan in this game, giving Len the potential to provide significant value.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 2/9/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 2/9/18

Use Code "LABWP50" at checkout for 50% off Seasonal Package
Use Code “LABWP50” at checkout for 50% off Seasonal Package
 

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Jeff Teague, MIN at CHI
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $5,900

Teague has limited upside because of his lack of scoring opportunities playing alongside Jimmy Butler, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Andrew Wiggins. There is still the potential for value though under the right circumstances because he is averaging 33 minutes per game this season. He scored 14 points and dished out 15 assists Wednesday in a favorable matchup against a Cavaliers team that struggles to defend point guards. He gets a similar opponent Friday as the Bulls allow the fifth-most points per game on FanDuel and the third-most points per game on DraftKings to the position. At this reasonable price, Teague has upside.

Joe Young, IND at BOS
FanDuel = $3,700
DraftKings = $3,000

The Pacers are without starting point guard Darren Collison (knee), which could open up some extra minutes for Young. In the first game that Collison missed Monday against the Wizards, Young played 28 minutes and scored 17 points to go along with five three-pointers. It’s important to note that Victor Oladipo also did not play in that game, but he should be fine for Friday. Young may not see the same amount of minutes, but his shooting performance could still lead to a somewhat expanded role. Considering he is dirt cheap on both sites, it might be worth taking a chance on him in tournament play.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Nicolas Batum, CHA at UTA
FanDuel = $6,200
DraftKings = $6,500

While the Hornets may have been looking to deal Batum leading up to the NBA trade deadline Thursday, he ultimately was not traded and should continue to have a significant role with the team. Not only is Batum averaging 18.5 points in his last six games, but he also dished out at least five assists in four of those contests. His ability to provide numbers across the board gives him value, making him someone to consider for your entry again Friday.

J.R. Smith, CLE at ATL
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,800

The Cavaliers were very active at the deadline Thursday, making several key moves as they push towards a long playoff run. While they created more quality depth, their new players are not expected to be available to play Friday. This leaves a lot of extra minutes for the players who are still available, including Smith. Smith can score in a hurry and gets to face a bad Hawks defense, making him a viable option at this price.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Stanley Johnson, DET vs. LAC
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $5,100

Johnson has seen an expanded role since the Clippers traded away Avery Bradley, logging at least 34 minutes in four straight games. His production hasn’t been off the charts, but he’s averaged a respectable 13.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.3 steals during that stretch. The Pistons did add a couple of players to their bench at the deadline, but no one who should significantly impact Johnson’s playing time Friday. His upside isn’t that high, but he is still someone to consider based on his price.

Taurean Prince, ATL vs. CLE
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,900

Prince has flashed his potential but has been very inconsistent this season overall. In his last six games, he has scored at least 19 points twice but scored five points or less three times. That’s a wild swing. The good news for Friday is that he plays a Cavaliers team that will not only be lacking depth, but the players left are not exactly world class defenders. If you want to take a chance on a cheap small forward in tournament play, Prince could help you cash in if his shot is falling.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

John Collins, ATL vs. CLE
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,800

The Hawks didn’t make any significant trades to free up minutes for Collins on Thursday, which could hinder his long-term value. There is still the possibility that they buy out one of their veterans, but it appears Collins minutes will continue to be limited for now. However, despite playing just 26 minutes in both of his last two games, he still averaged 12.0 points and 11.0 rebounds. With the Cavaliers depth issues Friday, Collins could still provide value for your entry.

Jeff Green, CLE at ATL
FanDuel = $3,900
DraftKings = $4,500

Green is another player on the Cavaliers who should benefit from their short rotations Friday. He has played at least 30 minutes in a game only twice this season, but averaged 20.0 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists in those two contests. He could be in line for similar playing time in this game, so don’t be afraid to take a chance on him in tournament play.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Jusuf Nurkic, POR at SAC
FanDuel = $6,600
DraftKings = $6,000

The Trail Blazers did not make any significant additions to their frontcourt Thursday, leaving Nurkic to anchor them in the middle for the foreseeable future. He’s not always the most consistent option, but he has scored at least 12 points and grabbed at least seven rebounds in six of his last seven games. The Kings allow the fourth-most points per game on FanDuel and the fifth-most points per game on DraftKings to opposing centers, leaving Nurkic as someone to consider for your lineup.

Greg Monroe, BOS vs. IND
FanDuel = $3,500
DraftKings = $4,300

Monroe made his debut with the Celtics on Thursday, scoring five points to go along with six rebounds, two assists and two steals in 20 minutes. He only took five shots in the game, but expect his role in the offense to expand as he becomes more familiar with his teammates. Friday brings a favorable matchup as the Pacers allow the third-most points per game on FanDuel and the second-most points per game on DraftKings to opposing centers. He won’t cost much, leaving him as a viable option.