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NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 2/1/18

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 2/1/18

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

Dejounte Murray, SA vs. HOU
FanDuel = $6,300
DraftKings = $5,900

Murray had a rare stat line Tuesday against the Nuggets where he failed to score, but still provided 10 rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks. Scoring is not his strength, but Murray has averaged 8.8 rebounds and 5.3 assists in six games since taking over as the starting point guard. He’ll likely get back on the board in the scoring column Thursday and should have an excellent opportunity to be productive overall considering the Rockets play at the eighth-fastest pace (101 possessions per game) in the league.

Tomas Satoransky, WAS vs. TOR
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,600

Satoransky will now be the starting point guard for the Wizards with John Wall (knee) out 6-to-8 weeks. Starting in place of Wall for the last two games, Satoransky averaged 7.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.0 steal and 1.5 three-pointers per contest. While he does have Tim Frazier behind him, Frazier hasn’t played well when given extended minutes this season. Satoransky is not going to provide much offense, but he can still do enough across the board to provide value at this price.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Malcolm Brogdon, MIL at MIN
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,300

The Bucks will likely be without Eric Bledsoe (ankle) on Thursday, who is listed as doubtful to play against the Timberwolves. That would leave a big hole to fill in their offense as Bledsoe has the second-highest usage rate (27.2%) on the team. Brogdon would be one of the main beneficiaries of Bledsoe’s absence, giving him a significant boost in value. In the last six games that Brogdon has played at least 34 minutes, he has averaged 17.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists per contest. Don’t hesitate to add him to your entry.

Wayne Selden Jr., MEM at DET
FanDuel = $3,600
DraftKings = $4,000

Not only are the Grizzlies riddled with injuries right now, but they have also decided to sit Tyreke Evans while they attempt to trade him.  That opened up added playing time for Selden on Wednesday against the Pacers, when he scored 24 points to go along with four rebounds, two assists, two steals and six three-pointers in 31 minutes. He played 31 minutes in the previous game against the Suns as well, finishing with 17 points and six assists. Considering he won’t cost much, he could be worth the risk Thursday.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Kyle Anderson, SA vs. HOU
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,100

Anderson is coming off of one of his better games of the season Tuesday against the Nuggets, scoring 18 points to go along with four rebounds, five assists, one steal and two blocks. He’s not a high volume scorer, but he makes his shots count by shooting 51.6% from the field this season. Not only do the Rockets play at a fast pace, but they also use a lot of small lineups and will be without one of their better defenders in Trevor Ariza (hamstring) on Thursday. Anderson could be in line for another well-rounded performance.

Stanley Johnson, DET vs. MEM
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $5,400

The Pistons were short-handed Tuesday due to their trade with the Clippers, leaving Johnson to play 40 minutes. To say he took advantage of the opportunity is an understatement as he finished with 26 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. Johnson should be in line for added playing time moving forward with Avery Bradley no longer on the team, but he might not be as involved offensively with Griffin likely to play Thursday. Even if he doesn’t get another 21 shot attempts like he did Tuesday, he should still get enough playing time to warrant consideration for your lineup.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Markieff Morris, WAS vs. TOR
FanDuel = $5,700
DraftKings = $6,200

Morris is only averaging 26 minutes per game this season, but he has played at least 30 minutes in four of his last five games. In those four contests, he averaged 18.5 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.0 three-pointers per game. He should continue to see extended playing time moving forward with the Wizards looking for help offensively with Wall out. His price is rapidly climbing, but it’s still low enough Thursday that he can provide value.

John Henson, MIL at MIN
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,900

The Bucks have been rumored to be looking for help up front leading up to the NBA trade deadline, but Henson will continue to get extended minutes for now. While his numbers aren’t off the charts, he is averaging a respectable 11.3 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in his last six games. The Bucks are going to need his size up front Thursday to battle with a big Timberwolves frontcourt, so expect him to get plenty of playing time. Of note, Henson is only power forward eligible on FanDuel as he is eligible only at center on DraftKings. Regardless of position, he is a viable option in this game.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Clint Capela, HOU at SA
FanDuel = $6,700
DraftKings = $6,800

Capela continues to have an excellent season, averaging career-highs in points (14.2), rebounds (10.8) and blocks (1.7) per game. Although he only averages 27 minutes per game, the lack of rebounders on the Rockets and their up-tempo style still leaves Capela with plenty of opportunities to be productive. He may be needed for a few additional minutes against a big Spurs frontcourt Thursday, leaving him as someone to consider for your entry.

Marcin Gortat, WAS vs. TOR
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,600

With only five games on the schedule Thursday, there aren’t any great really cheap options at center. It might be wise to spend up at the position as a result. However, if you are determined to save money at the position, Gortat could have some upside. In two previous games against the Raptors this season, Gortat averaged 11.5 points, 12.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists per contest. If he can get enough playing time, he could at least approach another double-double in their third meeting.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 1/24/18

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 1/24/18

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

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Dejounte Murray, SA at MEM
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,800

Murray has started the last two games for the Spurs and should start in place of Tony Parker going forward. The move has paid off well so far with Murray averaging 13.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 5.0 steals in those two contests. He’s not going to provide traditional point guard numbers in terms of assists and he’s not a good three-point shooter, but he makes up for it with his ability to rebound and rack up steals. His price is going to climb quickly if he keeps up this pace, but he’s still a great option at this cheap price Wednesday.

Yogi Ferrell, DAL vs. HOU
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,600

Ferrell has seen increased playing time of late, logging at least 31 minutes in five of his last six games. He cashed in the added minutes by averaging 15.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.6 three-pointers in those five contests. He should see plenty of playing time again Wednesday against a Rockets team that likes to use a lot of small lineups. Considering the Rockets also play at the eighth-fastest pace (101.2 possessions per game) in the league, Ferrell is a strong candidate to provide value.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Jeremy Lamb, CHA vs. NO
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,900

Lamb did a great job filling in for Nicolas Batum when he was injured to start the season but moved back to the bench once he returned. While his usage rate as a starter and a reserve are almost identical, he’s averaging seven fewer minutes per game when he comes off the bench. That doesn’t mean he still can’t provide value at this price though, evident by the fact that he is averaging 12.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.4 three-pointers in his last nine games. Not only does Wednesday’s opponent in the Pelicans play at the sixth-fastest pace (101.5) in the league, but they also allow the second-most points per game (110.9). While his upside is limited based on his role off the bench, Lamb is still a viable option to consider for your entry.

Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot, PHI vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $3,900

Luwawu-Cabarrot has been moved into the starting lineup with J.J. Redick (leg) and Jerryd Bayless (wrist) both injured. Redick will be out again Wednesday while Bayless is listed as questionable. Not only that, but T.J. McConnell (personal) has already been ruled out as well. If Bayless ultimately does not play, Luwawu-Cabarrot is going to be in for all the minutes he can handle. He averaged 18.0 points. 2.0 assists and 4.5 three-pointers while starting the last two games, so keep an eye on Bayless’ status throughout the day. If he is also ruled out, Luwawu-Cabbarrot could provide significant value.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Kyle Anderson, SA at MEM
FanDuel = $6,200
DraftKings = $5,900

As the Spurs continue to deal with injuries to Kawhi Leonard (quad), Rudy Gay (heel) and Manu Ginobili (thigh), it has resulted in Anderson playing at least 30 minutes in three straight games. He is usually productive when given added playing time, averaging 9.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.0 block in 14 games this season where he has played at least 30 minutes. He may not be flashy, but that’s valuable production at this reasonable price.

Nemanja Bjelica, MIN at POR
FanDuel = $3,600
DraftKings = $4,300

The key here is the status of Jimmy Butler (knee), who is listed as questionable for Wednesday’s game. Bjelica has started the last two games with Butler out, averaging 13.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.5 steals and 2.0 three-pointers per contest. He played at least 26 minutes in both games, which is no surprise considering how much playing time coach Tom Thibodeau gives all of his starting players. If Butler is ruled out for this game, Bjelica is an excellent value play.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Dario Saric, PHI vs. CHI
FanDuel = $6,300
DraftKings = $6,400

Saric had some big games when Joel Embiid was out earlier this season, but he’s still valuable even with Embiid on the floor. Embiid hasn’t missed a game in January, but Saric has still managed to average 14.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.0 steal and 1.7 three-pointers per contest during that stretch. The Sixers play at the second-fastest pace (102.8) in the league, which helps Saric gain added value. Wednesday brings a favorable matchup against the Bulls who also like to play fast and use a lot of small lineups, making Saric someone to consider using for your entry.

Jarrell Martin, MEM vs. SA
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,600

The Grizzlies are going to be lacking depth up front Wednesday with JaMychal Green (ankle) and Chandler Parsons (knee) already ruled out. Martin is not certain to play either as he is listed as questionable with a knee injury. If he is able to play, he could get a lot of minutes. He’s played at least 31 minutes in three of the last four games, averaging 13.3 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.7 three-pointers per contest. Keep an eye on his status leading up to tipoff.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Jonas Valanciunas, TOR at ATL
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,500

Valanciunas can sure take you on a rollercoaster ride in DFS. Take a look at his last four games in DraftKings for example. In those four games, he has scored 14.8, 43.5, 31.3 and 4.8 DraftKings points, respectively. It’s no coincidence that he played at least 27 minutes in both games that he performed well and 14 minutes or fewer in the two games that were flops. Consistent playing time has been an issue for him all season, so he’s usually only someone you want to take a chance on in tournament play. That being said, the Hawks do allow the fourth-most points on both FanDuel and DraftKings to opposing centers, so we might see the good side of Valanciunas on Wednesday.

Robin Lopez, CHI at PHI
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $4,500

Talk about two tough games for Lopez. He had to battle DeMarcus Cousins on Monday and now he follows that up with a game against Joel Embiid. The good news is, that likely means plenty of playing time again Wednesday as the Bulls really don’t have anyone else who can match up with Embiid’s size. In 13 games that Lopez has played between 30 and 39 minutes this year, he is averaging 15.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.2 blocks per contest. If you want to go really cheap at center in a tournament, Lopez might be worth considering.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/11/18

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/11/18

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

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

Delon Wright, TOR vs. CLE
FanDuel = $5,700
DraftKings = $5,100

Kyle Lowry (back) is considered unlikely to play Thursday, leaving Wright with another opportunity to start. He started for Lowry on Tuesday against the Heat, scoring 13 points to go along with seven rebounds, four assists, one steal, one block and one three-pointer in 29 minutes. Wright has played at least 29 minutes in four of his last six games, averaging 14.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists in those four contests. With an expanded role in the cards again Thursday, Wright could provide excellent value.

Patty Mills, SA at LAL
FanDuel = $4,000
DraftKings = $4,500

The Spurs are going to be short-handed Thursday with Kawhi Leonard (shoulder) and Rudy Gay (heel) out, Tony Parker (ankle) doubtful and Danny Green (groin) questionable. If all four players are indeed out, that’s a lot of minutes left on the table. Mills has played at least 30 minutes in a game three times this season, averaging 10.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 2.7 three-pointers in those contests. The Lakers play at the fastest pace (103.9 possessions per game) and allow the second-most points per game (111.1) in the league, leaving Mills as a viable option for your entry.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

Lou Williams, LAC at SAC
FanDuel = $8,900
DraftKings = $8,300

Williams is putting the Clippers on his back right now, averaging 31.8 points over his last 10 games. He scored a whopping 50 points Wednesday against the Warriors, but still managed to chip in seven assists in the game. The Clippers continue to be hit hard by injuries, which has led Williams to post a career-high 30% usage rate. The Clippers backcourt will be thin again Thursday, so look for more elite production from Williams against the Kings.

Bogdan Bogdanovic, SAC vs. LAC
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,000

The Kings inconsistent rotations make it hard to rely on their players in DFS but Bogdanovic has been one of the few you can count on lately. He’s played at least 30 minutes in five of his last seven games, which is a significant threshold for his value. He’s played at least 30 minutes in a game nine times this season, averaging 14.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.6 steals. At this reasonable price, he might be one of the more safer cheaper guard options Thursday.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

LeBron James, CLE at TOR
FanDuel = $11,500
DraftKings = $11,300

James is coming off one of his worst games of the season on Monday, but he only played 27 minutes in a blowout loss to the Timberwolves. Games like that are few and far between based on his 30.8% usage rate, which is ninth-highest in the league. He is the only player priced over $10,000 on both FanDuel and DraftKings on Thursday, but his upside is so high, it’s going to be hard to keep him out of your lineup.

Kyle Anderson, SA at LAL
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $5,400

With the Spurs dealing with injuries to several key players, look for Anderson to make another start Thursday. He’s started each of the last four games, averaging 7.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 2.5 steals and 0.8 blocks per game. While the offensive numbers aren’t anything to write home about, his defensive contributions help him to provide value. Considering how fast the Lakers play and how poorly they are on the defensive end, Anderson could have one of his better offensive games of the season. On a night with limited options, he is definitely someone to consider.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

LaMarcus Aldridge, SA at LAL
FanDuel = $9,900
DraftKings = $8,500

Aldridge is off to a great start in January, averaging 28.5 points and 11.5 rebounds through four games. With Leonard back on the shelf, he should continue to be the main contributor on offense for the Spurs. The Lakers struggle to defend opposing power forwards, allowing the fifth-most FanDuel points per game and third-most DraftKings points per game to the position. Aldridge is one of the best options available at any position Thursday, so don’t hesitate to add him to your lineup.

Davis Bertans, SA at LAL
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings =4,500

Bertans is another player that has seen increased action due to all of the Spurs injuries, logging at least 27 minutes in four straight games. He’s shown he can provide an offensive jolt, averaging 15.3 points and 3.3 three-pointers in those contests. He’s provided more than just scoring though, also averaging 4.0 rebounds and 1.0 block in those same games. With added playing time likely on tap again Thursday, he could be worth the risk in tournament play at this cheap price.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

DeAndre Jordan, LAC at SAC
FanDuel = $8,800
DraftKings = $8,400

The Clippers have dealt with a ton of injuries, but Jordan has been one of the mainstays on their roster. He’s always been a dominant rebounder, but he’s averaging a career-high 15.1 rebounds per game this season. He’s also been forced to take on a bigger role in the offense, averaging 17.6 points in his last five games. If Griffin can’t go again Thursday, it will leave Jordan to be a one-man gang on the glass against a deep Kings frontcourt. Even if Griffin does play, Jordan still has considerable value.

Julius Randle, LAL vs. SA
FanDuel = $6,700
DraftKings = $6,500

The Lakers have finally unleashed Randle. He’s started each of the last seven games, even with the return of Brook Lopez. He’s taken full advantage of the opportunity, averaging 17.6 points, 10.3 rebounds and 3.1 assists in those starts. While the Spurs are dealing with a lot of injuries, they still have Aldridge and Pau Gasol up front, which should lead to a big role for Randle again in this game. If you can’t afford to squeeze Jordan into your lineup, Randle is someone to strongly consider.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/3/18 – Value Plays

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/3/18 – Value Plays

SALE: 40% off entire NBA Seasonal Package - Coupon Code "NEWYEAR40" (including playoffs)
Use Code “NEWYEAR40” at checkout for 30% off Seasonal Package

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

J.J. Barea, DAL vs. GS
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $5,100

Barea is playing well right now, averaging 13.0 points, 8.6 assists, 1.0 steal and 1.8 three-pointers over his last five games. Although he hasn’t played more than 29 minutes in any of those games, he’s still provided value because his 25.6% usage rate is inside the top-4o in the league. The Warriors play at the fifth-fastest pace (102.3 possessions per game) in the league, so look for Barea to have an opportunity to provide value again at this reasonable price.

Jarrett Jack, NY at WAS
FanDuel = $4,700
DraftKings = $4,300

Jack is not a flashy option, but we’re not looking for flashy at this price. One of the keys to look for in a cheap option is reliable playing time. Jack gets just that as he continues to start for the Knicks, averaging 26 minutes per game this season. He’s playing well right now, scoring at least 20 points on both FanDuel and DraftKings in each of his last four games. Though Frank Ntilikina is making strides in his rookie season, Jack is still getting enough minutes to be a viable option Wednesday.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Allen Crabbe, BKN vs. MIN
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $4,400

The Nets have been bitten by the injury bug and things could be even worse Wednesday with Caris LeVert (groin) listed as doubtful and DeMarre Carroll (rib) listed as questionable. Crabbe is already averaging 29 minutes per game this season but could be counted on for heavy minutes if both LeVert and Carroll sit out this game. Even if one of them is able to play, Crabbe still has value, averaging 11.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.1 three-pointers over his last nine games. Of note, Crabbe is only shooting guard eligible on DraftKings. He is listed at small forward on FanDuel.

Malcolm Brogdon, MIL vs. IND
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,800

The Bucks and coach Jason Kidd can throw out some strange rotations at times, but Brogdon has still managed to play at least 30 minutes in seven of his last nine games. He averaged 13.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.0 steal and 1.2 three-pointers over those nine games, which is valuable at this price. The Pacers will be depleted at guard with Victor Oladipo (knee) out again, so Brogdon could thrive against a thin second unit. The price is right to take a chance on him in this game.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Kyle Anderson, SA at PHI
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $5,300

Anderson was solid filling in for the injured Kawhi Leonard to start the season but has seen his playing time and scoring opportunities decrease since his return. That might not be an issue Wednesday as not only is Leonard likely to rest on the second night of a back-to-back, but Danny Green (groin) might not play either. Anderson has played at least 30 minutes in a game eight times this season, averaging 9.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.5 steals in those games. An added bonus is that he gets to face the Sixers, who play at the second-fastest pace (103.3) in the league. The stars may be aligning for Anderson in this contest.

Joe Harris, BKN vs. MIN
FanDuel = $3,600
DraftKings = $3,900

Harris has been a valuable member of the Nets bench this season, averaging career-highs in points (9.8), rebounds (2.9), assists (1.4) and three-pointers (1.9) per game. The problem is he only gets limited playing time, averaging 24 minutes per contest. If LeVert and/or Carroll are unable to play Wednesday, Harris would likely be one of the main beneficiaries of their minutes.  Keep an eye on their status throughout the day and get Harris into your lineup if they can’t go.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Michael Beasley, NY vs. WAS
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $4,800

Beasley can explode offensively any given night and has done so of late, scoring at least 18 points in five of his last nine games. He’s only averaging 18 minutes per game this season but has averaged 25 minutes over those nine games. He’s going to be productive more often than not when given extended playing time because his 29.2% usage rate is second-best on the team. The Knicks score the tenth-fewest points per game (103.3) in the league, so they need Beasley’s offense. Don’t be surprised if he gets another opportunity to provide value Wednesday.

Marquese Chriss, PHO at DEN
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $4,600

The Suns have been one of the most frustrating teams in the league this season when it comes to their frontcourt rotations, especially at center. They appear to have finally started to settle things down, holding out Greg Monroe for each of the last five games. Chriss has thrived at power forward over those five games, averaging 12.2 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.8 blocks in 27 minutes per game. He gets a nice matchup Wednesday as the Nuggets allow the eighth-most points per game on FanDuel and the ninth-most points per game on DraftKings to opposing power forwards. As long as the minutes are there again, he could be one of the better value plays of the night.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Jonas Valanciunas, TOR at CHI
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $4,900

Valanciunas is a tricky option in DFS because he just doesn’t get consistent playing time. He needs everything to fall right in a matchup to provide value, which is the case Wednesday. Valanciunas has dominated the Bulls this season, averaging 22.0 points and 12.5 rebounds in their first two games. The key was he played at least 24 minutes in both contests. He should get added minutes matching up against Robin Lopez, making him an excellent option for your entry.

Richaun Holmes, PHI vs. SA
FanDuel = $4,100
DraftKings = $4,800

Sixers center Joel Embiid (hand) is listed as doubtful Wednesday, leaving Holmes with an opportunity for added playing time. The Sixers are always cautious with Embiid, which is not good for his chances of playing in this game. In the last seven games Embiid has missed, Holmes has averaged 11.6 points and 6.0 rebounds per contest. The Spurs have a lot of size up front, so expect the Sixers to lean heavily on Holmes if Embiid doesn’t suit up. While I prefer to go with Valanciunas, Holmes is also a viable cheap option at center.

NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 7

*Mike Barner*


Use Code “CYBER30” at checkout for 30% off Seasonal Package

NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 7

With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, the NBA gets back on track with a heavy schedule for Week 7. It’s important to know the intricacies of the schedule to gain an advantage over your opponent in a head-to-head league as starting your best players might not always give you the best chance to win. Here are the moves you want to consider for your team based on the week ahead.

Teams With The Most Games – 4 Games Each
Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings, San Antonio Spurs

There are 11 teams that all play four games each this week, giving their players added value. Fantasy studs like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Blake Griffin will be even more valuable with this advantage. If you aren’t lucky enough to have several players from these teams on your fantasy squad, consider adding the players below.

NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 7

Kyle Anderson, San Antonio Spurs

Anderson has started all 19 games for the Spurs this season in place of the injured Kawhi Leonard. He’s averaging 28 minutes per game, resulting in career-high averages in points (9.1), rebounds (6.1), assists (3.1), steals (1.0) and blocks (0.9) per game. He can help you with percentages as well as he’s shooting 51.5% from the field and 78.6% from the charity stripe. There is still no timetable for Leonard’s return, leaving Anderson with a prominent role again this week. The Spurs play struggling teams this week in the Mavericks, Thunder, and the Grizzlies twice. Anderson’s still available in 62% of Yahoo! leagues and can provide value based on his all-around production.

Wesley Johnson, Los Angeles Clippers

Johnson has started at small forward each of the last nine games with Danilo Gallinari out due to injury. He’s stepped in to provide valuable production as he’s averaging 10.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.1 blocks and 2.1 three-pointers per game. Gallinari’s recovery has been slow and he could be out this entire week as well considering he hasn’t even returned to full practice yet. If you need three’s and defensive stats, Johnson is a great option for you who is still available in 81% of Yahoo! leagues.

Ish Smith, Detroit Pistons

Smith isn’t starting for the Pistons and he’s only averaging 20 minutes per game, so he doesn’t exactly jump off the page as a must-add this week. However, he normally produces even in limited minutes as he’s averaging 9.6 points, 2.3 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game. He has the third-highest usage rate on the team (22.5%) behind Avery Bradley and Reggie Jackson, which has helped to give him value. Two of the Pistons four games this week come against teams in the top-four in the NBA in terms of pace of play in the Suns and Sixers, providing added opportunities for Smith to produce. He’s not going to get you many three’s or help much with defensive stats, but he’s a viable option if you need assists. He’s still available in 92% of Yahoo! leagues.

Teams With The Fewest Games – 2 Games Each
Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Toronto Raptors

Only three teams play two games this week, dealing a major blow to the fantasy value of their players. Consider benching the below players who would normally be in your starting lineup otherwise.

NBA Fantasy Basketball Schedule Analysis for Week 7

Serge Ibaka, Toronto Raptors

I’ll start off by saying I’m not a big fan of Ibaka in general. Once an elite shot blocker, his 1.3 blocks per game this season are the fewest since his rookie season. He’s also averaging only 11.9 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, both well below the prime of his career. While he helps you from behind the arc with his 1.5 three-pointers per game, that’s not as valuable as it once was with so many big men shooting three’s in today’s game. With only two games this week, it would be best to put Ibaka on your bench.

Nicolas Batum, Charlotte Hornets

Batum hasn’t played most of this season due to an elbow injury and has already missed one game since he returned with problems to the same elbow. He looked very rusty in his last game against the Spurs as he scored only five points while shooting 1-for-7 from the field. The Hornets two games this week come against the Heat and Raptors, two teams that are in the top-10 in the NBA in terms of fewest points allowed. With Batum struggling to find his groove again, I’d much rather start Anderson or Johnson over him this week.

Kent Bazemore, Atlanta Hawks

Bazemore is averaging a career-high 28 minutes per game on a rebuilding Hawks team that lacks depth. He has cashed in his extra minutes as he’s averaging 12.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.4 three-pointers per game. His 22.8% usage rate is second-highest on the team behind Dennis Schroder, so he clearly has a major role. The problem with using him this week is that outside of steals, he doesn’t really excel in any one category. Although he gets to play two bad defensive teams in the Cavaliers and Nets this week, he just can’t produce enough in two games to warrant starting him.