We didn’t have much to get excited about Tuesday with only one game in the NBA, but things ramp back up Wednesday with 12 games on the schedule.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Recommendations for January 2 2020
There will be no shortage of action in the NBA on Thursday with nine games on the schedule. Injuries will once again play a key role, creating some interesting opportunities in DFS.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/15/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
We’ve only got three games in the NBA on Thursday, but there will be plenty of high-end talent available with the Warriors, Rockets, Nuggets, and Spurs all in action. There is also a surprisingly decent amount of cheap value plays with upside. Let’s dive into the slate to see where you might be able to gain an edge. 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
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, LAC vs. SA
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,300
Avery Bradley (ankle) is listed as questionable for this contest, but even if he does return, it would be a surprise to see him back in the starting five. Gilgeous-Alexander has done a great job across four games in that role, averaging 14.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, one steal, and 1.5 blocks. The Clippers play at the eighth-fastest pace (103.3 possessions per game) in the league, which should continue to leave Gilgeous-Alexander as a great option for your entry.
Jeremy Lin, ATL at DEN
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $3,900
The Hawks have been a disaster this year, but Lin has actually been a bright spot off their bench. He got off to a slow start, which is understandable considering he missed virtually all of last season with a knee injury. However, he’s turned things on of late, averaging 13.1 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.3 steals across his last seven games. His 23.5 percent usage rate is also the third-highest on the team. This game could get ugly early against a far superior Nuggets team, which could afford Lin with a few added minutes in garbage time.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Lou Williams, LAC vs. SA
FanDuel = $6,800
DraftKings = $6,000
Gilgeous-Alexander isn’t the only player who has benefited from the absence of Bradley. Across the four games that he has missed, Williams is averaging 19.3 points and 7.3 assists per contest. Williams has logged at least 32 minutes in each of his last three games, which is significantly higher than his average of 26 minutes a contest for the season. If Bradley does indeed miss this game, Williams could provide significant upside, even though he’s not overly cheap.
Monte Morris, DEN vs. ATL
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,100
Isaiah Thomas (hip) is still out until at least December, which will continue to leave Morris as a significant part of their second unit. Although he’s not a consistent source for production, Morris has shown his potential by scoring at least 15 points in two of his last three games. Not only that, but he’s dished out at least six assists in back-to-back contests. If the Nuggets do get up big in this game early, Morris could see added minutes in garbage time. That makes him someone to potentially target, especially with the Hawks playing at the fastest pace (107).
SMALL FORWARDS
Taurean Prince, ATL at DEN
FanDuel = $6,300
DraftKings = $5,900
The Hawks are still in the very early stages of a rebuilding process, but Prince looks to be an important part of their future. He has the tendency to go through shooting slumps from time to time, but he gets plenty of shots with the second-highest usage rate (24.4 percent) on the team. Luckily, he’s also averaging 4.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.2 steals per contest, which somewhat helps make up for the nights when his shots aren’t falling. After shooting 17-for-27 (63 percent) across his last two games, he might be in the midst of a hot streak.
James Ennis III, HOU vs. GS
FanDuel = $3,800
DraftKings = $3,700
It appears the Carmelo Anthony era in Houston has quickly come to an end. Whether the Rockets trade or release him, Anthony has likely played his last game with the team. That opens up added playing time Ennis, who had 16 points, four rebounds, one steal, and two blocks across 34 minutes Tuesday against the Nuggets. Gary Clark (hip) is also listed as questionable for Thursday, so if he can’t play, Ennis could be locked in for extended action.
POWER FORWARDS
P.J. Tucker, HOU vs. GS
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,500
With Trevor Ariza now on the Suns, Tucker is starting and averaging a career-high 36 minutes a game. Don’t expect him to get a lot of shots playing with James Harden, Chris Paul, and Clint Capela, but Tucker has been able to average 8.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per contest. The Rockets surprisingly play at the 28th-fastest pace (97.5), but they might be forced to speed things up Thursday with the Warriors playing at the 12th-fastest (102.2). His upside isn’t very high, but Tucker’s extended playing time still makes him a viable target.
Trey Lyles, DEN vs. ATL
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,400
Lyles has had a couple of quiet performances lately, which has created an opportunity to roster him at a reduced price. He’s had an expanded role this season with Will Barton (groin) out and even has the second-highest usage rate (24.2 percent) on the team. If you want to go with the assumption that the Nuggets will win this game handily, taking a chance on Lyles could pay off if he gets added playing time.
CENTERS
Mason Plumlee, DEN vs. ATL
FanDuel = $3,700
DraftKings = $3,400
Not much was made of it, but Nikola Jokic received x-rays for an undisclosed reason after Tuesday’s game against the Rockets. Even though he said he’s fine, the fact that he needed to get one for any reason is concerning. Whatever is ailing him, it would seem silly for the Nuggets to play him significant minutes against the lowly Hawks if he’s not completely healthy. That could potentially open up the door for Plumlee to get added run. Plumlee doesn’t play a lot, but he’s still averaged 6.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.1 steals across 17 minutes a game.
Miles Plumlee, ATL at DEN
FanDuel = $3,500
DraftKings = $3,300
The Plumlee brothers might be facing each other a lot Thursday. Not only is the Jokic situation a concern for the Nuggets, but the Hawks will once again be without Dewayne Dedmon (personal). Alex Len is also battling an ankle injury and is listed as questionable. If he can’t play, Plumlee will be the last man standing for the Hawks at center. Still, don’t expect him to score much, but that doesn’t mean he can’t do enough across the board to justify being considered in tournament play.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/11/18
*Mike Barner*
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/11/18
Use Code “NEWYEAR40” at checkout for 40% off Seasonal Package
POINT GUARDS
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
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
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
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
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 1/4/18
*Mike Barner*
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 1/4/18
Use Code “NEWYEAR40” at checkout for 40% off Seasonal Package
POINT GUARDS
Stephen Curry, GS at HOU
FanDuel = $9,800
DraftKings = $8,400
Curry has wasted no time since returning from an ankle injury, averaging 35.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 8.0 three-pointers in two games. He’s averaging 4.0 three-pointers per game this year, but believe it or not, that mark could be even higher as he is shooting a career-low 40.6% from behind the arc. This should be a high-scoring game with both the Warriors and the Rockets in the top-eight in the league in pace of play, so take full advantage of Curry at this reasonable price.
Milos Teodosic, LAC vs. OKC
FanDuel = $5,900
DraftKings = $5,100
The Clippers have been decimated by injuries at guard throughout this season, the latest being Austin Rivers (Achilles). Rivers has missed both of the team’s last two games and is questionable to play Thursday. Even if he does manage to play, his minutes could be monitored. While not flashy numbers, Teodosic did average 10.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 2.5 three-pointers in the two games that Rivers missed. There aren’t many great cheap options available at point guard with only two games on the schedule Thursday, making Teodosic someone to consider.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Lou Williams, LAC vs. OKC
FanDuel = $7,500
DraftKings = $7,200
With all the injuries the Clippers have suffered, Williams is averaging career-highs in points (21.7), assists (4.8), three-pointers (2.7) and minutes (31) per game. His usage rate stands at 28.9%, putting him inside the top-20 in the league. The return of Blake Griffin from a knee injury has actually helped Williams since teams can’t key in on him defensively anymore, resulting in Williams averaging 32.0 points over the last three games. The Thunder are a strong defensive team, but volume alone still makes Williams someone to consider.
Eric Gordon, HOU vs. GS
FanDuel = $6,900
DraftKings = $6,500
How lucky are the Rockets to have Gordon? He started earlier this season when Chris Paul was injured and now he returns to the starting lineup with James Harden (hamstring) out of action. In 17 starts this season, Gordon is averaging 22.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 4.0 three-pointers. He should fit in even better with Paul running the show as Paul is more of a pass-first point guard as opposed to Harden being an elite scorer. At this reasonable price, Gordon is too good to pass up.
SMALL FORWARDS
Paul George, OKC at LAC
FanDuel = $8,400
DraftKings = $7,000
It took awhile, but the Thunder appear to have finally hit their stride, winning seven of their last 10 games. George missed one of those game, but averaged 21.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 2.4 steals and 1.0 block in the other nine games. His 25.1% usage rate is his lowest since the 2012-13 season, but he’s clearly ahead of Carmelo Anthony as the second-best offensive weapon for the Thunder. He’s priced low enough to be a viable option for your entry Thursday.
Gerald Green, HOU vs. GS
FanDuel = $4,100
DraftKings = $4,000
Talk about a player making an immediate impact on his new team. Green recently signed with the Rockets to give them depth on the bench but is now thrust into a prominent role with Harden out. He came through with flying colors in the first game without Harden on Wednesday, scoring 27 points to go along with six rebounds, two assists, and seven three-pointers in 28 minutes. While it will be hard for him to match that production, he should get extended minutes again Thursday in a game likely full of small lineups. He might be the best value play of the night.
POWER FORWARDS
Blake Griffin, LAC vs. OKC
FanDuel = $8,700
DraftKings = $8,200
Griffin continues to show his versatility, averaging 23.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists in three games since returning from injury. He has posted a career-high 30.1% usage rate this season, which is not surprising considering the rash of injuries the Clippers have suffered. The Thunder are a strong defensive team, but they don’t have much size up front. Carmelo Anthony will likely be the one trying to slow down Griffin on Thursday, so Griffin could be primed for a big game.
Ryan Anderson, HOU vs. GS
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,300
Games between the Rockets and Warriors are what Anderson was made for. With lots of small lineups and the game being played at a fast pace, it’s a perfect compliment to Anderson’s skillset. In his first meeting with the Warriors this season, Anderson scored 13 points to go along with eight rebounds, one steal, one block and three three-pointers. Last season, he averaged 14.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.5 three-pointers in two games against them. The price is right to take a chance on him playing well in this game.
CENTERS
Clint Capela, HOU vs. GS
FanDuel = $7,500
DraftKings = $6,800
The Rockets are going to need increased scoring from multiple players to make up for the loss of Harden, Capela included. He was up to the task Wednesday against the Magic, scoring 21 points in only 23 minutes. Centers thriving with Chris Paul running the point are nothing new, such as the success DeAndre Jordan had with him in Los Angeles. Capela has recorded a double-double in three of his last five games and could be extremely valuable if he continues to score more.
Steven Adams, OKC at LAC
FanDuel = $6,500
DraftKings = $5,800
Adams gets no easy task matching up against Jordan in this game. Jordan is an elite defensive rebounder, averaging 10.7 per game this season. One of Adams’ strengths is his ability to contribute on the offensive glass, averaging 4.9 offensive rebounds per game. While this is a tough matchup indeed, it should also lead to plenty of playing time for Adams because the Thunder don’t have much size. There aren’t any great really cheap options are center Thursday, but Adams is a viable option at this price.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 12/15/17
*Mike Barner*
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 12/15/17
Use Code “CYBER30” at checkout for 30% off Seasonal Package
POINT GUARDS
Damian Lillard, POR at ORL
FanDuel = $9,500
DraftKings = $9,400
Lillard only scored 18 points in his last game Wednesday against the Heat, but he was rolling before that with at least 29 points in four straight games. He’s been dealing with a sore ankle of late, but hasn’t missed any time and is expected to play Friday. This is a great matchup against the Magic as not only do they play at the seventh-fastest pace (102.2) in the league but they also really struggle to defend point guards. Look for Lillard to get back to his scoring ways in this game, providing an excellent option for your entry.
Milos Teodosic, LAC at WAS
FanDuel = $6,300
DraftKings = $4,500
Teodosic is still rounding into form after missing 22 games due to injury but did manage to get up to 25 minutes in his last game Wednesday against the Magic. He made the most of his playing time, scoring eight points to go along with six rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. The Clippers will be without Austin Rivers (concussion) on Friday, which could lead to more minutes for Teodosic if the club feels he is ready. If you are looking for a cheaper point guard option with upside, Teodosic might be your man.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Lou Williams, LAC at WAS
FanDuel = $8,800
DraftKings = $7,600
The Clippers have been decimated by injuries this year, leaving them to count on Williams more than they expected. Even though he has only started five games, he’s averaging a career-high 31 minutes per contest. Never one to shy away from shots, Williams is averaging 14.8 attempts per game, resulting in a career-high 20.0 points. With Rivers and Danilo Gallinari (hip) out Friday, Williams is primed for another big scoring night against the Wizards.
Gary Harris, DEN vs. NO
FanDuel = $6,400
DraftKings = $6,400
Harris showed why he is one of the main offensive weapons for the Nuggets by scoring 36 points Wednesday against the Celtics. He’s averaging the most minutes per game (34) on the team, giving him an added opportunity to produce. The Pelicans play at the sixth-fastest pace (102.3) and allow the second-most points per game (111.5) in the league, which is good news for the offensive-minded Harris. If you don’t want to pay up for Williams, look no further than Harris for excellent upside.
SMALL FORWARDS
Giannis Antetokounmpo, MIL vs. CHI
FanDuel = $12,500
DraftKings = $11,600
Giannis may have the highest floor of any player in DFS. Playing time is never a problem as he’s averaging 38 minutes per game and his 33.5% usage rate is fifth-best in the NBA. While he has some talented players around him in Eric Bledsoe and Khris Middleton, they compliment his game well without taking away any scoring opportunities. Few teams in the NBA have someone who can match up with him defensively, but the Bulls don’t have anyone close to being capable of slowing him down. Get ready for a huge performance.
Rudy Gay, SA at HOU
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,700
It’s no surprise that Gay has seen a decrease in production since joining the Spurs as they brought him in to be more of a supporting piece as opposed to a leading scoring. Not only is Gay averaging a career-low 24 minutes per game, but his average of 12.8 points per game is the lowest since his rookie season. He’s played better than that lately though, averaging 16.3 points and 7.3 rebounds over his last six games. The Rockets like to use a lot of small lineups, which could mean a few extra minutes for Gay. He’s priced low enough to be a viable option Friday.
POWER FORWARDS
Serge Ibaka, TOR vs. BKN
FanDuel = $6,500
DraftKings = $6,100
Ibaka has turned back the clock lately, averaging 18.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.8 blocks and 3.0 three-pointers over his last six games. He gets to play the Nets Friday, a team that doesn’t have a ton of quality depth up front. The Nets also play at the second-fastest pace (104.2) in the league, so Ibaka is going to get extra chances to keep his recent hot streak alive. With a significant role on tap for this game, get Ibaka in your lineup.
John Collins, ATL at MEM
FanDuel = $5,900
DraftKings = $5,500
After missing six straight games, Collins returned to play 19 minutes Thursday against the Pistons. He made the most of his limited minutes, scoring 15 points to go along with seven rebounds, one steal, and one block. Despite playing only 23 minutes per game this season, the talented rookie has still managed to average 11.7 points and 7.1 rebounds per contest. The Hawks are thin up front with Dewayne Dedmon (leg) out and really need Collins to produce. Although he may again see limited minutes in the second night of a back-to-back Friday, he’s priced low enough to warrant consideration.
CENTERS
Andre Drummond, DET at IND
FanDuel = $9,400
DraftKings = $9,100
Drummond is in a scoring slump, averaging only 7.8 points over his last four games. He still provides value even when he’s not scoring though as he also averaged 15.3 rebounds over that same stretch. Friday will mark his third game of the season already against the Pacers, a team that allows the second-most DraftKings points per game and the most FanDuel points per game to opposing centers. Drummond was no outlier, averaging 12.5 points, 18.0 rebounds and 2.5 blocks in those two games. He’ll cost you a lot, but should be worth it based on his opponent.
Marcin Gortat, WAS vs. LAC
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $5,300
Gortat shouldn’t be confused with a high-upside play as he just doesn’t score enough to be in that class. He still hovers around a double-double though, averaging 9.2 points and 8.6 rebounds per game this season. The Wizards are going to need him Friday because although the Clippers have a ton of injuries, DeAndre Jordan is healthy and logging 33 minutes per game. Gortat finished with nine points and eight rebounds when these same two teams met Saturday, so he can provide value at this cheap price.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 11/30/17
*Mike Barner*
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 11/30/17
Use Code “LLNBA17” at checkout for 20% off Seasonal Package
POINT GUARDS
Eric Bledsoe, MIL at POR
FanDuel = $7,500
DraftKings = $6,800
Bledsoe has played well since being traded to the Bucks as he’s averaging 15.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 2.1 steals and 1.1 three-pointers per game with his new squad. Now the second best offensive weapon on the team, he’s posting a 27.9% usage rate. His numbers are going to continue to get better as he gets accustomed to his new teammates and he’s already showing signs of that as he has averaged 23.0 points, 4.3 rebounds and 6.3 assists over his last three games. On a night with only five games on the schedule, Bledsoe presents an excellent option for your entry.
Jamal Murray, DEN vs. CHI
FanDuel = $5,100
DraftKings = $5,000
Murray doesn’t provide much outside of scoring, but he has managed to average 13.9 points and 1.2 three-pointers in only 27 minutes per game. He still has a significant role in the offense as his 24.4% usage rate is the highest on the team. Thursday’s matchup against the Bulls is favorable for Murray as the Bulls struggle to defend point guards. They have been especially poor of late, allowing an average of 23.6 points per game to opposing starting point guards over their last three contests. At this price, Murray can provide value.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Lou Williams, LAC vs. UTA
FanDuel = $8,000
DraftKings = $7,300
The Clippers are absolutely decimated by injuries and will be without Blake Griffin, Patrick Beverley, Danilo Gallinari and Milos Teodosic on Thursday. When you think about how much offense the Clippers were counting on from Griffin and Gallinari, that’s a lot of scoring to make up for. Enter Williams as he is never afraid to shoot the rock. He is currently averaging a career-high 13.7 shot attempts per game to go along with a 27.8% usage rate. Expect him to lead the Clippers offense Thursday, giving him value even at this expensive price.
Gary Harris, DEN vs. CHI
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $5,600
One thing you get with Harris is consistent playing time as he has played at least 30 minutes in all but three games this season, one of which he played 29 minutes. He’s not going to give you much in the way of rebounds or assists, but he makes up for it by averaging 1.8 steals to go along with 14.3 points per game. He has actually had at least three steals in three of his last four games. With plenty of minutes and shots on tap for Thursday’s matchup against a bad Bulls defense, consider adding Harris into your lineup.
SMALL FORWARDS
Giannis Antetokounmpo, MIL at POR
FanDuel = $11,800
DraftKings = $11,100
Not much needs to be said to make a case to start Giannis on Thursday. His 33.5% usage rate is fifth-best in the NBA, which is even better when you take into consideration he leads the league with 37 minutes per game. He also crushed the Trail Blazers earlier this season when he scored 44 points to go along with eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. He and LeBron James are the two best options at small forward for the evening, but I’d lean towards Giannis as this game should be more competitive than the Cavaliers taking on a bad Atlanta Hawks team.
Juan Hernangomez, DEN vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,000
DraftKings = $3,700
While the Nuggets aren’t as injury-riddled as the Clippers, they are dealing with problems of their own with Paul Millsap out for three months and Wilson Chandler already ruled out for this game with a back injury. Chandler missed the Nuggets last game Tuesday, leading to a start for Hernangomez. He came through with seven points, 10 rebounds and one block in 28 minutes, marking his best game of the season. With the expectation that he will see increased minutes again Thursday, he could provide significant value at this cheap price.
POWER FORWARDS
Derrick Favors, UTA at LAC
FanDuel = $7,400
DraftKings = $6,600
Favors is in the midst of his best stretch this season as he is averaging 19.4 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.8 blocks over his last five games. With so little depth behind him up front due to Rudy Gobert’s injury, he is going to continue to see extended playing time. This should be a fun matchup against DeAndre Jordan, one of the few quality big men still healthy on the Clippers. With Jordan likely to get heavy minutes, the Jazz will need Favors to come through again. Without a lot of great options at power forward for your entry, Favors provides one of the safer bets to produce.
Marcus Morris, BOS vs. PHI
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,700
Morris has taken a big step backward in terms of playing time as his 24 minutes per game is his lowest average since the 2013-14 season. With the talent Boston has up front, that shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. The good news is that he has done more with less as his 23.9% usage rate is the highest of his career. With Joel Embiid resting for the Sixers Thursday, they could use some smaller-than-usual lineup combinations. The Sixers play at the fourth-fastest pace (104.8) in the NBA already, so this could be one of the more uptempo games you see the Celtics play. Take a chance on Morris to have a big game based on his opponent and his reasonable price.
CENTERS
Nikola Jokic, DEN vs. CHI
FanDuel = $9,500
DraftKings = $9,100
With Embiid resting Thursday, Jokic becomes the center with the highest upside. While his scoring is slightly down, his overall numbers are even better than last year as he’s averaging 15.9 points, 11.0 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.4 three-pointers per game. One of the best passing centers in the league, his ability to contribute in multiple categories gives him the potential to provide massive production any given night. With a matchup against the Bulls on the slate, this could be one of those evenings when Jokic leads you to some money in DFS.
DeAndre Jordan, LAC vs. UTA
FanDuel = $7,400
DraftKings = $7,100
With Jordan approaching last-man-standing status in the Clippers frontcourt, he could put up some big numbers going forward. His scoring is down at 10.0 points per game, but he may get a few extra shot attempts with Griffin now on the sidelines. Always a valuable contributor on the glass, he should get all the minutes he can handle Thursday. If you can’t pay up for Jokic, Jordan can provide value at a more budget-friendly price.