The NBA’s star-studded Christmas Day slate should bring plenty of excitement once again this year. There are several big games on the docket and there will be no shortage of star power taking the floor, either.
Read MoreNBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 12/19/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
We’ve got a bevy of value play options to choose from Wednesday with 12 games on the schedule. Let’s dive right in and highlight a couple at each position that could hopefully help you win some cash. 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
Terry Rozier, BOS vs. PHO
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $4,300
Rozier shined filling in last season when the Celtics were dealing with several key injuries, but he’s been limited to just 23 minutes a game this year with Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward back in the fold. However, there are a couple of factors that could work in his favor Wednesday. First, Jaylen Brown (hand) is listed as questionable, so if he doesn’t take the floor, that could open up some added minutes for Rozier. Second, this game could get out of hand early with how poorly the Suns have played and this game being played in Boston. Rozier would also gain some added garbage time minutes in that scenario, so he might be worth the risk in tournament play.
Tyus Jones, MIN vs. DET
FanDuel = $3,900
DraftKings = $3,600
The Timberwolves will be without Jeff Teague (ankle), which will move Derrick Rose into the starting five. Rose is a great DFS option, as a result, but his price doesn’t exactly make him a cheap value play. Jones, on the other hand, isn’t too far off from the minimum price on both sites. He ended up playing 24 minutes in a blowout win over the Kings on Monday, scoring 10 points to go along with three rebounds, 10 assists, and two steals. This game figures to be closer, but that doesn’t mean Jones won’t play enough to be worth considering for your entry.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Marcus Smart, BOS vs. PHO
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,900
Like Rozier, Smart has seen a significant reduction in his playing time this season. However, if Brown doesn’t play, Smart will likely move into the starting five. Across nine previous starts, Smart has averaged 8.8 points. 3.1 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 2.8 steals. His scoring upside won’t be high whether he starts or comes off the bench, but his contributions in other areas would still make him a viable target with the added playing time.
Jamal Crawford, PHO at BOS
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $3,600
In a bit of an odd move, the Suns have waived Austin Rivers after acquiring him from the Wizards. They don’t have much depth at point guard, so Rivers could have been a valuable addition. Maybe they really like the production that they have received from Crawford, who is averaging nine points, 2.3 rebounds, and 8.7 assists across his last three games. Crawford will continue to be relied on to help play point guard Wednesday, so he could provide value despite this matchup against a tough Celtics defense.
SMALL FORWARDS
Nemanja Bjelica, SAC vs. OKC
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $4,800
Monday’s game was pretty much worst-case scenario for the starters on the Kings. They were pulled early after digging a deep deficit and never returned to the game. Bjelica only played five minutes, but don’t get scared away from him because of one oddball game. Marvin Bagley III (knee) will be out again Wednesday, setting Bjleica up for the opportunity for heavy playing time if the Kings can keep this game close.
E’Twaun Moore, NO at MIL
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,600
Speaking of teams dealing with injuries, things are looking ugly for the Pelicans for this game. Elfrid Payton (finger), Julius Randle (ankle) and Nikola Mirotic (ankle) will all be out, leaving a ton of available minutes. Randle and Mirotic are also two of their best offensive options, so expect Moore to be one of the players that they look to for adding offense. That could leave him as a great option in DFS since both the Pelicans and Bucks are in the top-five in the league in pace of play.
POWER FORWARDS
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, BKN at CHI
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $5,600
Hollis-Jefferson was sidelined with an injury to start the season and then he was stuck behind Jared Dudley when he was able to return. He’s finally reclaimed his starting spot, which is key because he’s averaged eight minutes more per game as a starter than when he comes off of the bench. The added playing time has helped him average 12.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 steals across his 13 starts and he’ll get a great opportunity to build on those numbers against the struggling Bulls.
Cheick Diallo, NO at MIL
FanDuel = $3,800
DraftKings = $4,500
With Randle and Mirotic out, Anthony Davis is going to have to carry even more of the load up front for the Pelicans. However, someone is going to have to help fill Randle’s and Mirotic’s minutes. Diallo is likely one of the prime candidates to spend more time on the floor. While opportunities have been few and far between for him this year, he had 10 points and 10 rebounds in the lone game in which he has logged at least 20 minutes. That’s obviously not a great sample size to be working with, but he might still be worth taking a chance on in tournament play.
CENTERS
Jarrett Allen, BKN at CHI
FanDuel = $6,400
DraftKings = $5,500
Allen is averaging seven more minutes a game this year compared to his rookie season with the Nets viewing him as a key part of their future. His production has increased along with his playing time, boosting him to averages of 11.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. The Bulls allow the second-most FanDuel and DraftKings points per game to opposing centers, leaving Allen with a prime opportunity to shine.
Cody Zeller, CHA vs. CLE
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,300
Zeller has battled injuries throughout his career, but he’s been able to play 28 games already this season. He’s not logging heavy minutes despite his starting role, but he’s still put up respectable numbers with 9.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, two assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.8 blocks per contest. The Cavaliers are thin at center with Kevin Love (toe) and Tristan Thompson (foot) out, so don’t sleep on Zeller.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 11/6/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
The NBA doesn’t bring a ton of action Tuesday with just four games on the schedule. There aren’t as many viable cheap value plays, as a result, but let’s examine some that could be difference makers for the evening. 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
Trae Young, ATL at CHA
FanDuel = $7,500
DraftKings = $7,300
Young certainly doesn’t come at a discount, but if you’re playing this limited slate on FanDuel, there aren’t a lot of great cheap options at point guard. Young is already getting plenty of scoring chances with his 27.9 percent usage rate, but he could be counted on for even more offense with Taurean Prince (ankle) listed as doubtful. Charlotte has allowed the seventh-most DraftKings points per game and the eighth-most FanDuel points per game to opposing point guards, making Young an excellent option for your entry.
Spencer Dinwiddie, BKN at PHO
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $4,800
With the Nets battling injuries at point guard last year, it allowed Dinwiddie to have a breakout campaign. Although he’s come off the bench in all 10 games this year with the Nets healthy, he’s still averaging 27 minutes a game. His assists are down at four per game, but his scoring has actually increased with 14.3 points and 2.3 three-pointers per contest. The Suns have struggled defensively yet again this season, leaving Dinwiddie as a viable option Tuesday, even in a reserve role.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Kent Bazemore, ATL at CHA
FanDuel = $6,400
DraftKings = $5,900
Bazemore is another player on the Hawks who should see an increase in usage if Prince isn’t able to play. Bazemore’s 21.3 percent usage rate already ranks fourth-highest on the team, behind only Young, Prince, and Jeremy Lin. Add in his 4.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.6 steals per contest and Bazemore makes a lot of sense at this reasonable price.
Malik Monk, CHA vs. ATL
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,600
The Hornets have gone with the combination of Jeremy Lamb and Monk at shooting guard this season. Even though Lamb has started all 10 games, they both receive about the same amount of playing time. The 24 minutes a night for Monk has been a significant increase from last year, helping him average 13.4 points and 2.4 three-pointers per contest. If this game gets out of hand early, Monk could really excel in garbage time since the Hawks play at the fastest pace (108.3 possessions per game) in the league.
SMALL FORWARDS
DeAndre’ Bembry, ATL at CHA
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,300
Bembry could find his way into the starting five if Prince sits this one out. Even though Bembry is only averaging 25 minutes a game, he’s provided respectable all-around averages of 8.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.6 steals. His upside isn’t off the charts even with added playing time, but he’s still someone to consider at his cheap price on both sites.
Miles Bridges, CHA vs. ATL
FanDuel = $4,000
DraftKings = $3,600
On such a limited slate, sometimes taking a big risk in tournament play can provide a significant return. If this game turns into a blowout, some of the bench players for the Hornets could see a substantial boost in minutes. One of those players could be Bridges, who is averaging 13.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and two three-pointers across the three games in which he has played at least 20 minutes. There is certainly risk here, but taking a chance on the blowout isn’t entirely crazy based on the circumstances.
POWER FORWARDS
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, BKN at PHO
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $4,800
Hollis-Jefferson missed the start of the season due to injury and hasn’t been able to regain his starting role since his return. He’s only averaging 22 minutes a game off the bench, putting a substantial cap on his upside. With that being said, it seems like it will only be a matter of time before he overtakes Jared Dudley in the starting lineup. After posting 21 points, six rebounds and three assists Sunday against the Sixers in 30 minutes, Hollis-Jefferson could get a few extra minutes again Tuesday.
Al-Farouq Aminu, POR vs. MIL
FanDuel = $5,100
DraftKings = $5,400
Aminu leaves a lot to be desired on the offensive end of the floor, averaging only eight points per game and shooting 38 percent from the field. He’s averaged at least 10 points per game in a season only one time in his career, so don’t expect him to go on a scoring binge anytime soon. Even taking that into consideration, you shouldn’t just avoid him when crafting your lineup. With 8.9 rebounds a contest, he’s at least a threat to approach a double-double on a nightly basis.
CENTERS
Jarrett Allen, BKN at PHO
FanDuel = $6,700
DraftKings = $5,200
Allen showed signs of promise as a rookie last year. The Nets have upped him to 27 minutes a game through their first 10 contests, helping him average 11.7 points and 7.7 rebounds. He’s been extremely efficient from the field with a 61.3 percent shooting percentage and contributes on the defensive end with 1.9 blocks per contest. Suns top pick Deandre Ayton might get all the headlines at center in this game, but Allen is also a worthy candidate in DFS.
Willy Hernangomez, CHA vs. ATL
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $3,500
If you want to go all-in on the theory that the Hornets blow out the Hawks, Hernangomez is another player with upside. He’s been limited to 15 minutes a game off the bench, but that hasn’t stopped him from recording seven points and 5.4 rebounds per contest. In the one game in which he played at least 20 minutes this year, he finished with 11 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Again, there is risk planning on a blowout score, but it could be one that pays off with Hernangomez.
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 Lineup Picks 1/1/18
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks 1/1/18
Monday night holds the first NBA slate of 2018 featuring a small 4 game slate.
RING in 2018 with code “NEWYEAR40” at checkout for 40% off Seasonal Package
POINT GUARDS:
Elfrid Payton ($8,000 FD/$7,100 DK) –
With the Magic vs. Nets game having a predicted total of 217, it’s evidently projected to be high scoring. The Nets allow a massive 48.60 fantasy points per 48 minutes to the point guard position which puts Payton in a great spot. Payton has been solid to say the least for the struggling Orlando Magic this season, and runs the offense pretty well. With teammate Nikola Vucevic sidelined for a little bit, he has seen a bump in usage rate and should be able to be the foundation of the Magic offense alongside Aaron Gordon in this match-up.
Shabazz Napier ($6,000 FD/$5,500 DK) –
With Damian Lillard injured, nobody has stepped up the plate to properly fill the void that was left more than Shabazz Napier. The Trailblazers’ backup point guard has been beyond efficient in replacing the superstar for the meanwhile. He is averaging 39 FanDuel PPG over his last 4 starts and collected 3 steals in three of those four games. He has a phenomenal match-up with the Bulls today, who rank in the bottom third of the NBA in defending the position. Lillard is questionable though for this game, meaning his return would send Napier to the bench and diminish his fantasy value.
SHOOTING GUARDS:
Evan Fournier ($6,100 FD/$5,900 DK) –
In this slate, the shooting guard options don’t require you to pay up as there as a few cheap options that could benefit your lineup. One of those is Evan Fournier. He has a great match-up with the Brooklyn Nets who rank 23rd in defending SG’s this season. With the absence of teammate Nikola Vucevic, Fournier reigns among the few beneficiaries in usage increase alongside Payton & Gordon. He’s projected for 30.6 FanDuel points in this contest and at $6,100 you can’t really complain about that bargain.
Josh Hart ($4,400 FD/$4,800 DK) –
As the Lakers play another road game, it’s likely Josh Hart will draw the start. Hart exploded or 26 points and 6 rebounds in 36 minutes in his last start, accumulating to 37.7 FanDuel points. He still remains dirt cheap as he only gets starts while KCP is dealing with his legal issues and cannot leave California. The last time Hart opposed the Timberwolves he scored 24.2 FanDuel points which is very healthy for his price tag. He also logged 38 minutes in that game so hopefully he sees the same workload tonight.
SMALL FORWARDS:
Jimmy Butler ($9,300 FD/$8,700 DK) –
If you are going to pay up at the SF position, Jimmy Butler may be your go-to. Not only does he have a better match-up than the Greek Freak, but he is projected for around the same amount of points while being $1,600 cheaper on FanDuel. Butler is honestly too cheap and his price needs to be taken advantage of. He has scored 45+ FanDuel points in four of his last five games, making him very consistent as of recently. His match-up with the Lakers today is one of the best among SF’s and is extremely appealing when making your lineup.
Corey Brewer ($3,700 FD/$3,400 DK) –
With such a small slate you will need a dirt cheap play to get your value and help you afford the superstars available. Corey Brewer has solid upside today. In the last two games with KCP out, Brewer has seen a significant boost in minutes, averaging 30.9 FanDuel PPG in those contests. He could be seeing around the same minute increase tonight. Mixing Brewer and Hart could be a great combination in this small slate to get a decent amount of value back as well as afford players with higher price tags.
POWER FORWARDS:
Aaron Gordon ($7,900 FD/$7,900 DK) –
The Orlando Magic offensive core is a great target for the defensively weak Brooklyn Nets. Aaron Gordon is the foundation of that core and comes at a fairly decent price. Recently coming off injury, Gordon’s minutes in his first two games back have been pretty healthy, logging 30 and 35 in the two contests. He should see likewise minutes today as he’s coming off a monstrous 39 point performance against the Miami Heat. Keep an eye out for Gordon in this one.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson ($7,400 FD/$6,300 DK) –
Nobody has been more consistent for the Nets lately than Hollis-Jefferson. He is averaging 35.5 FanDuel PPG over his last six contests, although his minutes are a bit inconsistent. In those six games, Hollis-Jefferson’s minutes range from 22-36, though he has made the most of them in each game. He is projected to see 30 minutes flat today, along with a projection of 31.4 points. He could make for a decent plug-in play for your lineup.
CENTERS:
Karl-Anthony Towns ($9,600 D/$9,700 DK) –
With a projected total of 214, the Lakers and Timberwolves game is assumed to be high scoring. Towns will most likely be the primary source of offense alongside Jimmy Butler (Who is featured above). The Lakers rank 28th in the league in defending the Center position. Towns is coming off a 63.8 FanDuel scoring night posting a double-double with 6 blocks. Although he may not replicate that performance, we may see something close enough out of KAT tonight. He is definitely a player worth paying up for.
Bismack Biyombo ($6,500 FD/$5,600 DK) –
Given the injury to Nikola Vucevic, Biyombo has been granted the starting position to take his place. He has been a rebound machine collecting double digit rebounds in three straight games. He is also averaging 32.5 FanDuel PPG in his last three games, with two of them being double-double performances. If you aren’t paying up for KAT, Biyombo is your next best bet. He remains extremely affordable and appears to be capable of exceeding value in his match-up with the Nets who rank 27th in defending Centers.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 11/22/17
*Mike Barner*
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 11/22/17
Use Code “LLNBA17” at checkout for 20% off Seasonal Package
POINT GUARDS
Kyle Lowry, TOR at NY
FanDuel = $8,000
DraftKings = $8,200
Lowry’s scoring is down significantly this season at only 14.6 points per game, However, most of that is due to a poor start as he has scored at least 17 points in six of his last seven games. Wednesday brings a rematch against the Knicks, a team that posted 22 points, eight rebounds, 10 assists and five-three pointers against last week. That should come as no surprise as the Knicks struggle to defend opposing point guards, so roll with Lowry again in this game.
Mario Chalmers, MEM vs. DAL
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $5,000
Chalmers has played well as a member of the starting five for the Grizzlies, averaging 10.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 2.3 steals in four starts this season. While his usage rate is about the same whether he starts or comes off the bench, he’s averaging seven more minutes per game as a starter, leading to the added value. The Mavericks are in the top-10 in terms of most fantasy points allowed to opposing point guards this season, making Chalmers an excellent value play.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Bradley Beal, WAS at CHA
FanDuel = $7,700
DraftKings = $7,800
Beal has been an offensive force again this season, averaging 24.2 points and 2.2 three-pointers per game. Throw in averages of 4.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.2 steals per game and you get an excellent all-around option. His 28.8% usage rate is the highest on the team and puts him inside the top-20 in the NBA. The Hornets are allowing the fifth-most points per game (24.6) to opposing shooting guards this season, making Beal a strong option for your entry.
Troy Daniels, PHO vs. MIL
FanDuel = $3,400
DraftKings = $3,300
With so many elite players in action Wednesday, you want to try and find a couple of really cheap tournament plays to help with your budget. Daniels has surprisingly been a big part of the Suns’ offense of late, averaging 15.7 points and 4.3 three-pointers over his last three games. The Suns play at the second-fastest pace (106.6) in the NBA, so Daniels has opportunities to produce even in limited minutes. He won’t cost you much, so take a chance on him in tournament play if you need to save some money.
SMALL FORWARDS
Paul George, OKC vs. GS
FanDuel = $8,500
DraftKings = $8,500
This will be a fun game to see how the Thunder’s new “big 3” hold up against the loaded Warriors. While the Thunder are only 7-9 to start the season, George is still averaging 21.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 2.6 steals and 3.4 three-pointers per game. The Thunder have so little depth that even with two other superstars on the team, George can still put up lofty numbers. This has the potential to be a high-scoring contest Wednesday, resulting in George having significant value.
Denzel Valentine, CHI at UTA
FanDuel = $5,100
DraftKings = $4,800
The rebuilding Bulls brought Valentine off the bench to start this season, but have finally moved him to the starting small forward in place of Paul Zipser. Valentine appears to have grabbed hold of the position, averaging 14.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 4.0 three-pointers in his last three games. Without the injured Rudy Gobert anchoring their defense, the Jazz aren’t the same team defensively. Valentine has the potential to be one of the best value plays for the evening.
POWER FORWARDS
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, BKN at CLE
FanDuel = $7,200
DraftKings = $6,400
Hollis-Jefferson is coming off one of his best games of the season when he scored 16 points to go along with 12 rebounds, five assists and one steal Sunday against the Warriors. The Cavaliers present a similar opponent in style of play as they too tend to use a lot of small lineups, which is ideal for Hollis-Jefferson. The Nets play at the fastest pace (107) in the NBA, leaving Hollis-Jefferson with plenty of opportunities to provide production. Get him in your lineup at this reasonable price.
Lauri Markkanen, CHI at UTA
FanDuel = $6,200
DraftKings = $6,600
The Bulls continue to struggle this season, but Markkanen has been one of the bright spots on their depleted roster. The rookie is averaging 15.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.5 three-pointers in 31 minutes per game. The fight between Bobby Portis and Nikola Mirotic opened up a starting spot for Markkanen and it appears he is now going to hold onto it for the rest of the season. As one of the few quality scoring options on the team, he should continue to see heavy minutes again Wednesday. Based on his production and role on the team, this is a very reasonable price for Markkanen on both sites.
CENTERS
Nikola Jokic, DEN at HOU
FanDuel = $9,000
DraftKings = $8,900
The Nuggets were dealt a significant blow Wednesday when it was announced Paul Millsap needs surgery on his injured wrist and will be out indefinitely. Millsap had the second-highest usage rate (23.7%) on the team, leaving a lot of opportunities for others to produce now that he is out. Jokic was already one of the focal points of the team as he had a 21.1% usage rate himself, but he could see increased production going forward. Both the Nuggets and Rockets and are in the top-12 in the NBA in terms of pace, so this could be a huge night for Jokic.
Thon Maker, MIL at PHO
FanDuel = $3,400
DraftKings = $3,300
The Bucks are going to be thin up front Wednesday as John Henson has already been ruled out for this game with an eye injury. That’s not good news because even though the Suns are horrible, they have a lot of size up front in Tyson Chandler, Alex Len, and Greg Monroe. Maker is only averaging 18 minutes per game this season but could see significantly more playing time in this contest. If you want to take a chance on a cheap center in tournament play, Maker could be in line for a decent performance.
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 11/17/17
*Mike Barner*
NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 11/17/17
Use Code “LLNBA17” at checkout for 20% off Seasonal Package
POINT GUARDS
Kyle Lowry, TOR vs. NY
FanDuel = $8,000
DraftKings = $7,700
Lowry has blown past his slow start to the season as he is averaging 19.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 7.8 assists over his last five games. One of the main reasons for his increased scoring is that he is 14-for-35 from behind the arc over his last four games. He and DeMar DeRozan are the focal points of the Raptors offense, so don’t expect his scoring opportunities to decrease anytime soon. The Knicks are in the top-five for most fantasy points allowed to point guards, leaving Lowry as a viable option at a reasonable price Friday.
Spencer Dinwiddie, BKN vs. UTA
FanDuel = $6,500
DraftKings = $5,500
Dinwiddie was stellar filling in for the injured D’Angelo Russell as he scored 12 points to go along with three rebounds, and 11 assists against a tough Boston Celtics defense Tuesday. This should come as no surprise as he is averaging 13.0 points, 3.3 rebounds and 6.3 assists in three starts this season. Russell is expected to be out again Friday, making Dinwiddie an excellent value play with so little depth behind him.
SHOOTING GUARDS
Donovan Mitchell, UTA at BKN
FanDuel = $6,400
DraftKings = $6,500
Mitchell has burst onto the scene in his rookie season and has taken away a starting job from Rodney Hood, who many had thought was primed for a big season. In seven games as a member of the starting unit, Mitchell is averaging 16.0 points, 2.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.7 three-pointers per game. His usage rate of 29.1% puts him at 16th in the NBA, which is ahead of the likes of Stephen Curry, Blake Griffin, and John Wall. The Jazz will rely on him heavily for offense again Friday, so there is great potential here against a bad Nets defense.
Jordan Clarkson, LAL vs. PHO
FanDuel = $5,100
DraftKings = $5,100
Clarkson has been playing really well this season and now he’s stealing minutes away from the struggling Lonzo Ball. Clarkson has played at least 26 minutes and scored at least 20 points in both of the last two games. He took a massive 40 combined shots in those games, so the Lakers clearly have no problem feeding him the ball when he’s hot. The Lakers just played the Suns Monday and Clarkson put up 25 points in that game, so keep rolling with him until he shows signs of slowing down.
SMALL FORWARDS
LeBron James, CLE vs. LAC
FanDuel = $11,400
DraftKings = $11,200
James continues to log heavy minutes for the Cavaliers as he has been on the floor for at least 36 minutes in nine straight games. There is never any question that he can provide elite all-around stat lines and with the Cavaliers struggles so far, there aren’t many blowouts where he sits in the fourth quarter. The Clippers have plenty of offensive weapons, so this could be another close contest. He will cost you a ton, but he should be well worth it Friday.
Thabo Sefolosha, UTA at BKN
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,200
Sefolosha started and played 32 minutes when these teams met Saturday, finishing with nine points, nine rebounds, one assist and five steals. The Nets play a lot of small lineups, so even if Sefolosha doesn’t start Friday, he should see increased minutes. While he doesn’t have a ton of offensive upside, he can provide you with enough rebounds and steals to be of value at this cheap price.
POWER FORWARDS
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, BKN vs. UTA
FanDuel = $7,400
DraftKings = $6,000
Hollis-Jefferson is already averaging a career-high 28 minutes per game this season, but he has played even more lately with at least 30 minutes in six of his last seven games. With the Nets down their two best offensive players in Russell and Jeremy Lin, they are going to need scoring from Hollis-Jefferson. He is taking an average of 10 shots per contest and is shooting 49.2% from the field, taking his game to new levels so far. In a game that should see plenty of small lineups, look for him to thrive.
Derrick Favors, UTA at BKN
FanDuel = $6,500
DraftKings = $5,900
Yes, I like a lot of players from this game. What’s not to like though? The Nets are allowing the second-most points per game in the league and the Jazz are without their defensive anchor in Rudy Gobert. Favors is now starting at center and crushed the Nets for 24 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks in their previous meeting. The Nets are particularly bad at guarding opposing centers, so expect Favors (who is also eligible at power forward on both sites) to shine once again.
CENTERS
Jusuf Nurkic, POR at SAC
FanDuel = $7,700
DraftKings = $7,000
Speaking of teams who can’t defend centers, I present to you the Kings. The Kings were destroyed by Dewayne Dedmon of the Atlanta Hawks Wednesday as he scored 20 points and grabbed 14 rebounds. While Dedmon is a fine player, he doesn’t have anywhere near the offensive skills that Nurkic does. Don’t overthink it, put Nurkic in your entry.
Mason Plumlee, DEN vs. NO
FanDuel = $3,500
DraftKings = $3,700
Plumlee would be starting for a lot of other teams in the league, but he’s buried behind Nikola Jokic in Denver. As a result, he is only averaging 15 minutes per game. There is the potential that he could see an increase in playing time Friday against the big Pelicans frontcourt. With averages of 6.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, 0.9 steals and 0.8 blocks per game in his limited playing time this year, he could far exceed his price point with some extra run in this game. If you want to take a chance on a cheap center in tournament play, Plumlee is someone you should consider.