We saw our first big trade leading up to Thursday’s trade deadline when the Nuggets, Hawks, Rockets and Timberwolves completed a wild four-team trade Tuesday night. While we wait for more deals to be consummated, we have a nine-game DFS slate to ponder Wednesday.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Recommendations for January 30 2020
Thursday brings a lot of star power in the NBA despite there being only six games. In order to fit some of those stars into your DFS entry, you’ll also need to find some cheaper options who can help balance out your budget.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Recommendations for December 31 2019
With a few early games in the NBA on Tuesday, only four games will make up the main evening slate in DFS.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Recommendations for December 25 2019
The NBA’s star-studded Christmas Day slate should bring plenty of excitement once again this year. There are several big games on the docket and there will be no shortage of star power taking the floor, either.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 12/5/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
Wednesday is shaping up to be an awesome night in the NBA with 10 games on the schedule. Not only is their a ton of top-tier talent to choose from, but there are also a lot of excellent cheap value plays. Here are a couple to consider at each position to help round out 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
Jeremy Lin, ATL vs. WAS
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,900
The Hawks will be without Taurean Prince (ankle) for the at least the next three weeks, which is a huge loss since he has the fourth-highest usage rate (22.6 percent) on the team. There are several players who could see an increase in scoring with Prince out, including Lin. Lin actually already has a higher usage rate (23.2 percent) than Prince does, which has enabled him to maintain value despite coming off of the bench. His price is climbing, but Lin is still a viable option based on his role with the team.
Tim Frazier, NO vs. DAL
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $4,500
Frazier didn’t exactly shine with seven points, four rebounds, four assists, and one steal Monday against the Clippers, but he did log 29 minutes. That marked the third time in the last four games that he has spent at least 29 minutes on the floor. The Pelicans won’t count on him to score much, but he should continue to have the ability to rack up assists with so many talented players around him. It also helps that the Pelicans play at the third-fastest pace (104.5 possessions per game) in the league.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Kevin Huerter, ATL vs. WAS
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $3,700
Huerter had a hard time finding consistent playing time earlier in this season, but he’s started five straight games and logged at least 25 minutes in each of his last three contests. His role should be even more secure now with Prince out. His scoring numbers haven’t been stellar, but he has averaged nine points, 5.3 rebounds, four assists, and one steal across those three games. Both the Hawks and the Wizards are in the top-six in the league in pace of play, further strengthening a case to take a chance on Huerter in tournament play.
Alec Burks, CLE vs. GS
FanDuel = $4,100
DraftKings = $4,000
The Cavaliers don’t have a ton of talent, which has enabled Burks to immediately take on a significant role off the bench after being acquired from the Jazz. He’s made the most of his opportunity, averaging 13.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and one steal across three games. His usage rate is also 24.4 percent, so he could jack up plenty of shots Wednesday as the Cavaliers attempt to keep pace with the high-scoring Warriors.
SMALL FORWARDS
Juancho Hernangomez, DEN at ORL
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $4,400
Not only is Will Barton (groin) still on the sidelines, but the Nuggets will also be without Gary Harris (hip) for this contest. Hernangomez likely won’t see significantly more scoring opportunities even with Harris out, but he’s still a great option in DFS. Across 11 games as a starter, he’s averaging 12.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.2 three-pointers per contest.
Kelly Oubre Jr., WAS at ATL
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,600
The Wizards are thin up front with Dwight Howard (lower body) out, but it might be better if they just leave Oubre as a member of their second unit. He’s averaging 12.9 points and 4.5 rebounds a game coming off the bench compared to 9.9 points and 4.4 rebounds when he starts. Consistency is a concern with him, but considering how poorly the Hawks play, this might be the time to take a chance on Oubre in tournament play.
POWER FORWARDS
Serge Ibaka, TOR vs. PHI
FanDuel = $5,900
DraftKings = $5,800
This matchup between the Raptors and Sixers should be one of the best games of the night. They enter as the top two teams in the Eastern Conference and are separated by just three games. The acquisition of Jimmy Butler was huge for the Sixers, but it also left them with Wilson Chandler as their starting power forward. They don’t have great options behind him, either, potentially setting up Ibaka for a big performance.
Frank Kaminsky, CHA at MIN
FanDuel = $3,900
DraftKings = $3,700
Marvin Williams (shoulder) hasn’t been overly productive for the Hornets, but he has been starting and averaging 25 minutes a game. With him out for at least a week, a few players could be in line for added playing time. Miles Bridges might see the most significant jump, but don’t forget about Kaminsky, either. He’s only played at least 20 minutes in a game twice all season, but he averaged 15 points, four rebounds, and 1.5 assists in those contests. At near the minimum price, Kaminsky could be a gamble worth taking Wednesday.
CENTERS
Dewayne Dedmon, ATL vs. WAS
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $3,900
The Hawks don’t have a ton of talent, but they do have both Dedmon and Alex Len at center. They’ve eaten into each other’s fantasy value, but Len is starting to see his playing time dwindle lately. Dedmon tied his season high by playing 31 minutes Monday against the Warriors and finished with six points to go along with 10 rebounds, four steals, and one block. With Howard out of the picture for the Wizards, Dedmon could provide plenty of value if he’s given extended playing time again.
Jonas Valanciunas, TOR vs. PHI
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,300
The Raptors have been playing small lately, leaving Valanciunas to come off of the bench in each of their last four games. However, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him return to the starting five for this matchup against Embiid. Valanciunas has been much more productive as a starter, averaging 14.3 points and 8.4 rebounds across nine games. When these two teams met earlier this season, he scored 23 points and grabbed four rebounds over just 17 minutes.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/29/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
We’ve only got three games in the NBA on Thursday, leaving us with very few value options to choose from. That being said, there are still some players to highlight who have favorable matchups that are still worth considering. 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
Darren Collison, IND at LAL
FanDuel = $6,300
DraftKings = $4,700
It looks like the Pacers will be without Victor Olaipo (knee) once again. Collison hasn’t seen a significant increase in playing time, but he is averaging 7.6 assists across five games with Oladipo out compared to 4.8 assists for the season, overall. His 16.6 percent usage rate isn’t all that appealing, but Collison might be able to contribute enough across the board Thursday in this matchup against a Lakers team that plays at the fifth-fastest pace (103.9 possessions per game).
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, LAC at SAC
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,900
An injury to Avery Bradley opened up a starting spot for Gilgeous-Alexander that he has yet to relinquish. Don’t expect him to lose the job anytime soon, either, since he is averaging 12.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, three assists and one steal across 11 games. His usage rate is also 19.7 percent as a starter, up from 15.6 percent when he was coming off of the bench. Both the Clippers and the Kings are in the top-eight in the league in pace of play, which could leave Gilgeous-Alexander with a few more opportunities to provide value.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Buddy Hield, SAC vs. LAC
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,700
Hield was limited to 25 minutes a game last year, but the Kings are giving him a chance to shine this season with 31 minutes a night. He hasn’t let them down, averaging 18.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per contest. His usage rate of 24.4 percent has remained largely unchanged from last year, but it’s the second-highest on the team behind Harry Giles (26.7 percent). This game could be a shootout with Hield right in the center of it all.
Aaron Holiday, IND at LAL
FanDuel = $4,100
DraftKings = $3,700
Holiday was awful against the Suns on Tuesday, going 1-for-6 from the field for two points and two assists across 15 minutes. Prior to that, he had averaged 13.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and two assists across four games with Oladipo out. There is certainly risk involved with putting Holiday into your entry, but it might be one worth taking based on his price. Of note, he is only eligible at shooting guard on FanDuel as he is listed at point guard on DraftKings.
SMALL FORWARDS
Bojan Bogdanovic, IND at LAL
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $5,300
If you’re looking for an efficient scorer, look no further than Bogdanovic. His 19.2 percent usage rate is nothing to write home about, but he’s shooting 54.2 percent from the field and 53.5 percent from behind the arc. Strangely enough, he is shooting a career-low 79 percent from the charity stripe, but he’s still averaging 15.6 points per game. He’s taken on more offensive responsibilities with Oladipo out, making him another Pacer to target Thursday.
Doug McDermott, IND at LAL
FanDuel = $3,900
DraftKings = $3,500
McDermott has not been able to live up to the hype of being the 11th-overall pick in the 2014 Draft and is now on his fifth team. He’s mostly a three-point specialist, shooting 40.5 percent from behind the arc for his career. Normally he doesn’t get many shot attempts, but he’s been more involved due to the absence of Oladipo. Across his last five games, McDermott is actually averaging 13.8 points. At near the minimum price on both sites, McDermott could provide some value in tournament play.
POWER FORWARDS
Serge Ibaka, TOR vs. GS
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,500
With the Warriors lack of size up front, this would appear to be a game in which Ibaka will receive significantly more playing time than Jonas Valanciunas. Across five games in which Ibaka has logged at least 30 minutes, he is averaging 17.6 points, six rebounds, and 1.4 blocks. He’s not overly cheap, but this could still be a matchup to exploit.
Thaddeus Young, IND at LAL
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,500
Young had a minuscule 15.7 percent usage rate through his first eight games but has been more involved with an 18.1 percent usage rate across his last 13 contests. He’s another one of the players on the Pacers to see a bump in productivity with Oladipo out, averaging 11.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.6 steals across the last five games. His upside isn’t nearly as high as Ibaka’s, but he also provides a little more savings for your budget, leaving him in the discussion at power forward.
CENTERS
Willie Cauley-Stein, SAC vs. LAC
FanDuel = $6,800
DraftKings = $5,900
Cauley-Stein has hit a rough patch, averaging 9.4 points and 6.8 rebounds over his last five games. However, it should be noted that two of those contests were blowouts in which he logged 18 and 23 minutes, respectively. The Clippers have allowed the fifth-most DraftKings points per game and the eighth-most FanDuel points per game to opposing centers, so this might be just what the doctor ordered to get Cauley-Stein back on track.
Boban Marjanovic, LAC at SAC
FanDuel = $4,700
DraftKings = $3,500
Marcin Gortat (back) was a late scratch for Wednesday’s game against the Suns, opening up a spot start for Marjanovic. He recorded 12 points and 12 rebounds and is now averaging nine points and nine rebounds across four starts this season. He’s clearly not going to log as many minutes as Montrezl Harrell even if he starts Thursday, but Gortat being out again would make Marjanvic a great option in tournament play.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/22/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
We’ve got nine games on the NBA schedule Monday, including an exciting matchup between the Lakers and Spurs. Let’s try to add even more fun to the evening with some winning entries in DFS. Here are some cheaper players who could provide significant returns based on their matchups. 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
J.J. Barea, DAL vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,900
The Mavericks certainly have a lot to be excited about with two promising young players in Luka Doncic and Dennis Smith Jr. They also have some valuable veterans on this roster. One of them is Barea, who has been stalwart of their second unit for many years. This season has been no different with him averaging 10.5 points, two rebounds, 10.5 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.5 three-pointers over his first two games. Although he doesn’t log a ton of minutes, he can still be valuable based on his 20.6 percent usage rate and ability to rack up assists.
Bryn Forbes, SA at LAL
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,600
If it wasn’t for bad luck, the Spurs would have no luck at all this season when it comes to their point guards. Dejounte Murray (knee) is out for the year and Derrick White is still working his way back from a heel injury. Forbes has started both games in their absence, averaging 14 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, one steal, and three three-pointers. He’s not your traditional point guard in terms of his assists, but his ability to shoot from behind the arc leaves him with upside, especially against a Lakers team that plays at such a fast pace.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Josh Hart, LAL vs. SA
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,100
The Lakers will be without two key parts of their rotation for this game with Rajon Rondo and Brandon Ingram both suspended. Several players will likely be in line for increased opportunities, including Hart. He’s already off to a good start, averaging 15.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.5 steals, 1.5 blocks and two three-pointers per game. He’s also seen his usage rate skyrocket from 13.5% last year to 21.6% this season.
Wesley Matthews, DAL vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $5,000
Another veteran who plays a significant role for the Mavericks is Matthews. He’s averaged 35 minutes across their first two games and has logged at least 34 minutes per contest in each of his previous three seasons with the team. His numbers aren’t off the charts, but he’s averaged at least 12.5 points per game in each of those seasons in large part because he’s also contributed at least 2.4 three-pointers per contest. The Bulls have allowed an average of 112.5 points across their first two games.
SMALL FORWARDS
Trevor Ariza, PHO at GS
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,100
The Suns have a lot of talented young players on their team and added Ariza over the summer to provide some veteran leadership. His first game with the team couldn’t have gone much better, posting 21 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and five three-pointers against the Mavericks. However, he came crashing back down to Earth with five points and three rebounds in their subsequent game against the Nuggets. The good news is he played at least 29 minutes in both contests and should have a significant role moving forward. With all the small lineups the Warriors like to deploy, look for Ariza to be heavily involved Monday.
Jae Crowder, UTA vs. MEM
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,700
Crowder showed a lot of promise during his tenure with the Celtics, but his brief stint with the Cavaliers in the first half of last season was a train wreck. He played much better after being dealt to the Jazz, averaging 11.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 0.9 steals and 1.8 three-pointers per contest. The Jazz have given him a significant role off the bench this year, as well, helping him post 15 points, six rebounds, one steal and two three-pointers per game. They have also played at the fifth-fastest pace (110.7 possessions per game) in the early going, making Crowder a viable option for your entry.
POWER FORWARDS
Serge Ibaka, TOR vs. CHA
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,300
With the league trending towards smaller lineups, you could see the writing on the wall when it came to playing time for Jonas Valanciunas. He averaged a career-low 22 minutes per game last year and has only logged 18 minutes per contest through the first three games this season. Ibaka has been the Raptors preferred option up front when they do go small, helping him average 29 minutes a game. While he’s not putting up the gaudy block numbers like he did during his tenure with the Thunder, Ibaka has still been excellent this year with 15.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, one steal and 1.7 blocks per game. The Hornets like to play small, so look for Ibaka to see plenty of minutes Monday.
Dwight Powell, DAL vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $5,100
The Mavericks desperately needed to add talent at center and they did just that by bringing in DeAndre Jordan. They still don’t have a ton of talent up front, though, and are missing Dirk Nowitzki as he recovers from an ankle injury. Powell has been extremely involved as a member of their second unit with a 29.1% usage rate. That’s not going to hold up, but he’s going to get added opportunities to produce until Nowitzki returns. Based on how poorly the Bulls have played on the defensive end, Powell could be in line to extend his hot start.
CENTERS
Myles Turner, IND at MIN
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $6,000
Turner was a trendy pick for a breakout campaign last year, but he didn’t show much improvement. In fact, his 47.9% field goal percentage was the lowest mark of his young career. He’s had an inconsistent start this year, but that could be partly because the Pacers haven’t had a game yet that was decided by fewer than 17 points. Karl-Anthony Towns isn’t a great defender and Turner has the ability to contribute plenty of blocks, leaving him with upside Monday.
JaVale McGee, LAL vs. SA
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,900
McGee has done a great job for the Lakers. They like to use a lot of small lineups, but McGee has averaged 21 minutes a game as their starting center. After being relegated to an extremely limited role with the Warriors, McGee has cashed in his added playing time this year for 14.5 points, seven rebounds and four blocks per contest. Even though Rondo won’t play, McGee still has LeBron James and Lonzo Ball to create scoring opportunities for him. If he keeps playing like this, he won’t be this cheap for much longer.
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.
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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 Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 24
*Mike Barner*
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NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 24
It’s important to know the intricacies of the NBA schedule to gain an advantage over your opponent in a head-to-head fantasy league as starting your best players might not always give you the best chance to win. Here are some moves you might want to consider for your team based on the week ahead.
Teams With The Most Games – 4 Games Each
Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings, Washington Wizards
There are 17 teams who each play four games this week, which is a big help considering the number of injuries piling up across the league. If you need some help for your squad in what is likely championship week in your league, consider adding the players below who are still available in the majority of leagues.
Quinn Cook, Golden State Warriors
The Warriors have been decimated by injuries to their star players, the most significant of which is to Stephen Curry (knee). Curry returned from an ankle injury only to hurt his knee and will not only miss the rest of the regular season but also likely part of the playoffs. Quinn has excelled with Curry out, averaging 19.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.2 steals and 2.5 three-pointers in his last six games. It’s important to note that Kevin Durant (ribs), Klay Thompson (thumb) and Draymond Green (illness) have all missed time during that stretch as well. Durant and Green are likely to return at some point this week, which would limit Cook’s role in the offense. However, with Curry and Thompson out, Cook will get enough playing time to provide a boost if your squad needs a guard. He’s still available in 57% of Yahoo! leagues.
Cameron Payne, Chicago Bulls
The Bulls are tanking hard down the stretch and have been extra cautious with injuries, one of which is to starting point guard Kris Dunn (toe). Dunn is likely out for most, if not all, of Week 24. Even if he does play at some point this week, he would likely be on a minutes restriction. Payne has played well in Dunn’s absence, averaging 11 points, 3.4 rebounds, 6.2 assists and 1.8 three-pointers in five starts. He won’t help your shooting percentage though as he is shooting just 42.2% from the field this season. If you need assists and three-pointers though, he could be a valuable addition who is still available in 85% of Yahoo! leagues.
Luke Kennard, Detroit Pistons
Kennard is having his best month of the season in March, averaging 11 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.4 three-pointers in 10 games. It’s no coincidence that his playing time has been on the rise, averaging 26 minutes per contest over that same stretch. Three of his four games this week are great matchups against the Lakers, Knicks, and Nets. The Lakers and the Nets are both in the top seven in the league in pace of play and the Knicks are struggling mightily down the stretch. Kennard is still available in 95% of Yahoo! leagues, but could be in line for a big week when it might matter to you the most.
Teams With The Fewest Games – 2 Games Each
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors are the only team with just two games this week, dealing a significant blow to the players on their roster. Of the teams playing three games each this week, some are dealing with injury issues as well. Here are some players that you may normally start who might be better suited to be on your bench this week.
Hassan Whiteside, Miami Heat
The Heat have three games this week, but Whiteside (hip) hasn’t played in eight straight games. The Heat still have yet to announce a timetable for his return, which is not encouraging for him this week. With their first game coming up quickly Tuesday, it’s reasonable to expect him to miss at least one more contest. Even if he does return at some point this week, he could be on a minutes restriction. He’s a great option when healthy, but he’s just too risky to put into your lineup this week.
Jonas Valanciunas, Toronto Raptors
Valanciunas is closing out the season on a high note, averaging 16.1 points, 9.6 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game in March. However, having only two games this week really hurts his value. One of them is against the Celtics, a team he only averaged four points and five rebounds against in two previous games this season. His playing time can be inconsistent as well, so the time might be right to place him on your bench.
Serge Ibaka, Toronto Raptors
Unlike Valanciunas, Ibaka is not playing well down the stretch, averaging just 10.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 0.8 blocks in March. Ibaka’s value comes mainly from being able to provide contributions in multiple categories, but he doesn’t excel in any one particular area. With only two games this week, he just won’t have enough opportunities to help you across the board to warrant putting him in your lineup.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/20/18
*Austyn Varney*
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers Lineup Picks for 3/20/18
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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