There will be no shortage of action in the NBA on Wednesday with nine games on the schedule.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Recommendations for February 24 2020
There is value galore across Monday’s eight-game slate in the NBA. With so many cheap players set up to potentially thrive, we can also set out sights on a few stars who could shine.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Recommendations for January 17 2020
As far as Friday’s go, this isn’t exactly a busy one with seven games in the NBA. Still, that leaves us with a lot of viable options to wade through in DFS, so let’s highlight a couple of players at each position to target.
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 11/27/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
There are only five games in the NBA on Tuesday, which doesn’t exactly leave for a ton of viable cheap value play options. We might have to dig a little deeper than normal, but here are a couple of players at each position that stand out as viable options. 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
Trey Burke, NY at DET
FanDuel =$6,100
DraftKings = $4,700
The Knicks sure don’t make rostering their players in DFS feel comforting. They frequently change up their rotations with Burke maybe being the poster child for this practice. He sat out three games entirely towards the beginning of November, but he’s logged at least 26 minutes in five of their last six games. It’s going to be hard for the Knicks to bench him now since he averaged 23.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and four assists over those five contests.
Cory Joseph, IND at PHO
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,600
With Victor Oladipo (knee) out the last four games, Joseph has averaged 10 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.8 steals per contest. He’s an excellent defender and the primary backup to starting point guard Darren Collison, so Joseph still has secure minutes even if Oladipo does return Tuesday. This also has the potential to be a blowout against a bad Suns team, which could afford Joseph some added opportunities in garbage time.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Rodney McGruder, MIA vs. ATL
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,900
The Heat are going to be thin in their backcourt again Tuesday with Goran Dragic (knee) and Tyler Johnson (hamstring) already listed as out. That should leave added playing time for a few players, including McGruder. His production has slowed down a bit since the start of the season, but he’s still averaging 11.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and three assists per contest in November. Since the Hawks play at the fastest pace (106.7 possessions per game) in the league, McGruder is a viable option to consider due to his high minute’s floor.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, LAL at DEN
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $3,600
Caldwell-Pope’s playing time is down significantly this year at 21 minutes per contest. However, the injury to Rajon Rondo (hand) has allowed him to take on a more prominent role. Across five games since Rondo was injured, Caldwell-Pope has averaged 10.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 steals over 27 minutes a game. His upside might not be as high as McGruder’s, but he’s also dirt cheap on both sites.
SMALL FORWARDS
Bojan Bogdanovic, IND at PHO
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,900
The Pacers destroyed the Jazz on Monday with Bogdanovic once again playing a key role in their success. He only attempted nine shots, but he still scored 15 points to go along with five rebounds, four assists, and one steal. If Oladipo can’t play again Tuesday, Bogdanovic stands out as a great value play option. However, even if he does return, Bogdanovic is still someone to consider based on this limited slate.
Juancho Hernangomez, DEN vs. LAL
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,800
Hernangomez has really stepped up with Will Barton (groin) on the sidelines. He’s moved into the starting five and has thrived in the role with 12.3 points and seven rebounds per contest. The Nuggets normally play at a slow pace, but they might have to speed things up Tuesday with the Lakers playing at the fourth-fastest pace (104.2). With Hernangomez already receiving more minutes, this could be a favorable spot for him to be productive.
POWER FORWARDS
JaMychal Green, MEM vs. TOR
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,200
Power forward might be the toughest position of the night if you want to save money, especially if you play on FanDuel. Green began the season as a starter for the Grizzlies, but after missing an extended stretch due to injury, he’s lost his job to Jaren Jackson Jr. However, Green has still been productive off the bench, averaging 8.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks across five games. Don’t expect eye-popping numbers from him Tuesday, but he’s still in the discussion for tournament contests.
Richaun Holmes, PHO vs. IND
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $3,300
After the Suns moved on from Tyson Chandler, Holmes emerged as the clear backup center to Deandre Ayton. Holmes has really come into his own of late, averaging 11.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and two blocks across his last four games. His price on FanDuel isn’t bad, but his price on DraftKings is especially appealing. The Pacers have a lot of size up front, so Holmes might even see a few added minutes, as well.
CENTERS
Jonas Valanciunas, TOR at MEM
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,300
The Raptors continue to play matchups at center, which sometimes forces Valanciunas into a reserve role. That shouldn’t be the case Tuesday, though, against Marc Gasol. Valanciunas has still managed to be productive coming off the bench, but he’s been better as a starter with 14.3 points and 8.4 rebounds per game.
Bam Adebayo, MIA vs. ATL
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,500
Adebayo had his best game of the year Sunday against the Raptors, scoring 16 points to go along with 21 rebounds and two blocks across 36 minutes. Hassan Whiteside was limited to just 12 minutes due to foul trouble, which was the main reason for Adebayo’s bump in playing time. Guessing scores can sometimes be tricky when planning your DFS lineup, but this has the potential to be a blowout win for the Heat at home against the Hawks. If that were to be the case, Adebayo could feast in garbage time.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/14/18
*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
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
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
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
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
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 Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/2/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
The NBA has plenty of action to start off your weekend with eight games on the schedule Friday night. That gives us a lot of DFS value plays to wade through, so let’s get right down to business. 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
Elie Okobo, PHO vs. TOR
FanDuel = $4,100
DraftKings = $4,300
The Suns entered the season with a significant hole at point guard. Isaiah Canaan has been a member of the starting five with shooting guard Devin Booker also taking on more of a facilitating role. However, both of them are injured and listed as questionable for Friday. Okobo has logged at least 28 minutes in both of the last two games as a result of their injuries. His production hasn’t been off the charts, but he’s averaged 13 points, 4.5 rebounds, six assists, and 1.5 three-pointers during that stretch. If Booker and/or Canaan are forced to sit again Friday, Okobo is worth considering in tournament play.
Dante Exum, UTA vs. MEM
FanDuel = $3,800
DraftKings = $3,700
The Jazz will be without Donovan Mitchell (hamstring) in this game, leaving a huge void in their offense. It will likely take a group effort to make up for his absence, especially considering his 29.4 percent usage rate. Exum has already been averaging 19 minutes a game for the Jazz, but he could be one of the players who sees a few more minutes, and shots, Friday. Exum has averaged 13.5 points, four rebounds, 3.5 assists and one three-pointer across the two games in which he has played at least 20 minutes this year, leaving him with some upside at near the minimum price on both sites.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Justin Holiday, CHI vs. IND
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,600
The Bulls have a laundry-list of injuries right now with Lauri Markkanen (elbow), Kris Dunn (knee) and Bobby Portis (knee) all on the shelf. They are clearly a rebuilding team, but they’ve been forced to play Holiday more due to their lack of depth. His upside isn’t tremendously high, but Holiday is averaging a respectable 11.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.4 steals and 2.8 three-pointers per contest. Although he doesn’t come at a huge discount on FanDuel, his DraftKings price is appealing.
Eric Gordon, HOU at BKN
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,900
James Harden (hamstring) appears to be nearing a return, but he’s not expected to take the floor against the Nets. In the first two games that Harden has missed, Gordon averaged 16 shot attempts. While he only made seven total shots, the added volume gives him plenty of scoring potential. If he can correct his shooting woes in this contest, he could be an asset at this price. Keep him out of cash contests, but he might be worth a look in tournament play.
SMALL FORWARDS
Tyreke Evans, IND at CHI
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,900
Evans was thrust into a significant role for the Grizzlies last year when Mike Conley was lost for the season, resulting in Evans averaging 31 minutes a game. The Pacers are a much deeper team, so it’s not all that surprising that he’s only averaged 20 minutes a game so far. Even with limited time of the floor, Evans is still averaging 10.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, three assists, and 1.3 three-pointers. The Bulls are one of the worst defensive teams in the league, which should give a bump to Evans and just about everyone else on the Pacers’ roster. If this game also gets out of hand early, Evans could see some extra garbage time minutes.
Kelly Oubre Jr., WAS vs. OKC
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,800
The Wizards are a disappointing 1-6, but they’ve also dealt with their share of injury issues. Oubre has been one of their few bright spots, averaging 14.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and two three-pointers a game. It’s not as if he’s seen a huge jump in playing time, either, with his 27 minutes a night on par with his average from last season. The Wizards should be getting Dwight Howard (back) and Markieff Morris (concussion) back Friday, but Oubre is still going to be a significant part of their second unit.
POWER FORWARDS
Noah Vonleh, NY at DAL
FanDuel = $5,700
DraftKings = $4,800
It’s no surprise that the Knicks are 2-6 with Kristaps Porzingis still recovering from a torn ACL. What is surprising is that they have been bringing one of their better players in Enes Kanter off the bench lately. Vonleh has been moved into the starting five, as a result, averaging 9.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.7 steals and 1.7 blocks in that role. With no signs that the Knicks will make a change back to Kanter for this contest, Vonleh will continue to have added value.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, BKN vs. HOU
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $4,900
Hollis-Jefferson has come off the bench in all five games since returning from injury, but you have to wonder how much longer the Nets will continue to have him in that role while Jared Dudley starts. Even though Hollis-Jefferson has only averaged 21 minutes, he’s been able to record 8.6 points, six rebounds, 0.6 steals, and 0.8 blocks per contest. With the Rockets playing at a fast pace and using a lot of small lineups, this has the potential to be Hollis-Jefferson’s best performance of the year if he can get a few extra minutes.
CENTERS
Steven Adams, OKC at WAS
FanDuel = $7,500
DraftKings = $7,100
If you are playing on FanDuel, there aren’t a lot of great cheap center options. As a result, this might be one of the positions to pay up for. Adams isn’t overly expensive, but he has a high floor with averages of 13.2 points, 11.8 rebounds, 1.8 steals, and 1.3 blocks. The Thunder did add some depth at center with Nerlens Noel, but Adams is still logging 35 minutes a game. The Thunder and Wizards are both in the top-six in the league in pace of play, which could leave Adams with even more opportunities to stuff the stat sheet.
Jonas Valanciunas, TOR at PHO
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,300
Valanciunas’ role continues to fluctuate based on matchups. The Suns have a promising big man in Deandre Ayton, so look for Valanciunas to be in the starting lineup for the Raptors. When he starts, he has averaged 13 points, nine rebounds, and 1.7 assists per contest. The Suns have allowed the most fantasy points per game to opposing centers, making Valanciunas someone to key in on if you are looking for some budget relief at center.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/30/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
There are a lot of great value plays on tap Tuesday in DFS with eight games on the NBA schedule. Here are some options to consider as you craft what will hopefully be a winning 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
Collin Sexton, CLE vs. ATL
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,000
The Cavaliers continue to start George Hill at point guard, but Sexton is their future at the position. He’s not your traditional point guard, though, averaging just 2.2 assists in 24 minutes per game. After getting off to a slow start, Sexton is showing some promising signs by averaging 13.3 points, 3.3 assists and one steal across his last three games. The Hawks play at the fastest-pace (108.8 possessions per game) in the league, which could leave Sexton with a few added opportunities to provide value Tuesday.
D.J. Augustin, ORL vs. SAC
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,300
The Magic have scored the fewest points per game (100.8) and some of that might be due to their lack of talent at point guard. Augustin has been starting for them, but he’s much better suited to be in a backup role at this stage of his career. His numbers don’t jump off the page, but his averages of 8.7 points, five assists and 1.5 three-pointers per contest make him someone to not completely overlook. This might be a spot to put him into your lineup against a Kings team that has played at the second-fastest pace (107.6).
SHOOTING GUARDS
Rodney McGruder, MIA at CHA
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $6,200
McGruder didn’t exactly have a great performance with seven points, six rebounds, and one three-pointer Monday against the Kings. On a positive note, he did play 32 minutes. With all of the injuries the Heat suffered to start the year, McGruder found himself in an expanded role that he has yet to relinquish. With averages of 14.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, four assists, and 2.3 three-pointers look for him to have a bounce-back performance Tuesday.
Jordan Clarkson, CLE vs. ATL
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,600
With the Cavaliers loss of Kevin Love (foot), they have a gaping hole in their offense. Clarkson’s 28.8 percent usage rate is already the highest on the team, but he could be looking for even more shots moving forward. The departure of LeBron James certainly hasn’t been good for the Cavaliers, but it has benefited Clarkson, who is averaging a career-high 16.2 points per game. Considering the fast pace at which the Hawks play, this could be a big night for Clarkson.
SMALL FORWARDS
Jonathan Isaac, ORL vs. SAC
FanDuel = $5,700
DraftKings = $4,700
The Magic have some ugly offensive numbers, but they’ve played three tough teams in a row in the Celtics, Blazers, and Bucks. Isaac actually played well during that stretch, averaging 10 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks. He still has a lot of improving to do offensively, but he can be a menace defensively and on the glass. With the added scoring potential facing a Kings team that has allowed the fourth-most points per game (119.3), Isaac is someone to consider in tournament play.
Jeff Green, WAS at MEM
FanDuel = $4,000
DraftKings = $4,400
One of the biggest disappointments of the season has to be the Wizards and their 1-5 start. They are allowing a staggering 125 points per game and they again don’t appear to be the most cohesive unit. A contributing factor for their struggles has to be injuries with Dwight Howard (back) yet to make his debut. Howard won’t play again Tuesday and the Wizards could also be without Markieff Morris, who is in the concussion protocol. If he can’t play, either, this is a prime spot for Green to get added playing time. Don’t expect lofty production, but he is averaging 11 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists across 26 minutes per game.
POWER FORWARDS
Montrezl Harrell, LAC at OKC
FanDuel = $5,700
DraftKings = $5,500
Marcin Gortat might be the starting center for the Clippers, but Harrell is the player who has seen the most playing time at the position. In the three games in which Harrell has played at least 20 minutes, he’s averaging a staggering 19.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 2.3 blocks. The Thunder could be really thin at center Tuesday with both Steven Adams (calf) and Nerlens Noel (ankle) listed as questionable. If either or both of them don’t play, the Thunder will have to go small, which could mean even fewer minutes for Gortat. Even if they do take the floor, Harrell can provide value at this price.
Zach Collins, POR at HOU
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,000
Collins might only be averaging 22 minutes a game, but he’s been extremely efficient, shooting 69.4 percent from the field, 54.4 percent from behind the arc and 88.2 percent from the charity stripe. It’s going to be hard for him to continue to shoot that well, but he’s clearly made himself a fixture of the second unit for the Blazers. With the Rockets propensity to use small lineups and play at a fast pace, Collins could be set up for another valuable evening.
CENTERS
Jonas Valanciunas, TOR vs. PHI
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,400
The Raptors continue to play matchups at center, which resulted in Valanciunas coming off the bench Monday against the Bucks. Expect him to be back in the starting lineup Tuesday with the Raptors set to face Joel Embiid and the Sixers. Across the three games in which Valanciunas has started, he’s averaging 13 points and nine rebounds.
Cody Zeller, CHA vs. MIA
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,100
Even though the Hornets like to use a lot of small lineups, Zeller has started all seven of their games. He doesn’t get traditional starter’s minutes at just 22 per game, but that hasn’t stopped him from averaging a respectable 9.4 points and six rebounds. The Hornets might be forced to give him more playing time against Hassan Whiteside, making Zeller someone to consider if you want to go really cheap at center.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/26/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
It isn’t necessarily the busiest Friday we’ll see in the NBA with seven games on the schedule, but there are still a lot of great value plays available in DFS. Let’s examine some players to consider as you wade through the options. 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
Derrick Rose, MIN vs. MIL
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,600
Rose hasn’t started a game for the Timberwolves this season, but he’s playing a key role off of their bench. Across 29 minutes per contest, he’s averaging 15 points, 3.6 rebounds, and five assists. He won’t provide much in the way of defensive stats or three-pointers, but his 23.4 percent usage rate is third-highest on the team behind Jimmy Butler (24.7 percent) and Andrew Wiggins (24.5 percent) percent. The Bucks are a tough defensive team, but Rose is still worth considering for your entry.
J.J. Barea, DAL at TOR
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,700
Barea is listed as questionable for Friday with a hamstring injury, so you’ll need to keep an eye out for updates on his status leading up to the game. If he does play, he could be a bargain at this price. Even though he’s only averaging 20 minutes off the bench, he’s averaging 8.3 points, 8.5 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.3 three-pointers per contest. His usage rate is down this season due to the addition of Luka Doncic, but it’s still relatively high at 22.7 percent.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Damyean Dotson, NY vs. GS
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,200
With Kristaps Porzingis still recovering from a torn ACL, the Knicks need to find offense any way they can get it. They’re currently riding Dotson’s hot hand, who exploded for 20 points and three three-pointers Wednesday against the Heat. He’s making a case to continue to see extended playing time with averages of 14.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.7 steals and three three-pointers across the three games that he has played in.
Danny Green, TOR vs. DAL
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,200
Green hasn’t exactly been consistent to start out the season. He’s scored at least 14 points in two of his five games but scored six points or fewer in two of the other three contests. On a positive note, he did receive at least eight shot attempts in all five contests and is averaging 2.8 three-pointers made. The Mavericks have been horrid defensively in the early going by allowing 119.3 points per game, leaving Green with some upside for your entry.
SMALL FORWARDS
Nemanja Bjelica, SAC vs. WAS
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,000
It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster ride this season in terms of production from Bjelica. When he gets extended playing time, he’s been valuable, averaging 13.7 points, eight rebounds, two steals and 1.3 blocks across three games in which he has logged at least 27 minutes. However, trying to predict what rotations the Kings are going to use on a nightly basis is not easy, which makes Bjelica a risky option. With that being said, if he does get the added minutes, he could be an asset at this price.
Mario Hezonja, NY vs. GS
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,400
Hezonja’s playing time has been a product of the game score through five contests. In the Knicks’ two games that have been decided by fewer than 10 points, Hezonja only averaged 12 minutes. In their three blowouts, he averaged 24 minutes. Over those three contests, he posted 16 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.7 steals per contest. It would be pretty surprising if the Knicks can hang with the Warriors on Friday, which could lead to garbage time stats for Hezonja.
POWER FORWARDS
Markieff Morris, WAS at SAC
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,600
If there’s one thing the Kings have, it’s size up front. The Wizards are currently lacking options in that department with Dwight Howard (back) yet to make his season debut. To complicate matters, Ian Mahinmi is listed as questionable for Friday with a back injury of his own. They might be forced to lean heavily on Morris, who is averaging 15.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.8 three-pointers. The Kings and Wizards are also both inside the top-five in the league in terms of pace of play, which could lead to even more opportunities for Morris to stuff the stat sheet.
Montrezl Harrell, LAC at HOU
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $4,600
The Clippers brought in Marcin Gortat to replace DeAndre Jordan, but they might have been better off leaving the center position to Harrell and Boban Marjanovic. Both have had some impressive performances so far while Gortat has mostly struggled. With the small lineups the Rockets like to use and the face pace at which they play, Harrell is likely going to lead the Clippers in minutes at center Friday. When these two teams met Sunday, Harrell recorded 17 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, one steal and three blocks over 24 minutes.
CENTERS
Jonas Valanciunas, TOR vs. DAL
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,400
The Raptors have been playing matchups at center, leaving Valanciunas to come off of the bench in three of their five games. Despite only averaging 19 minutes a contest, he’s still recorded 11.8 points and 8.6 rebounds a night. This could be one of the games where he does get added minutes facing DeAndre Jordan, making him one of the better cheap options at center to take a chance on in tournament play.
Cody Zeller, CHA vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,100
These two teams squared off Wednesday in what was a high-scoring affair that came down to the final seconds. The Bulls lost Bobby Portis to a knee injury in that game, but they still have depth at center with Wendell Carter Jr., Robin Lopez, and Cristiano Felicio. Zeller didn’t exactly thrive in that game, but his stat line was respectable with 14 points, six rebounds and two assists across 21 minutes. While he doesn’t have nearly the upside that Valanciunas does, Zeller could be an option if you want to go really cheap at center.
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.