Header Image - PICK LIKE THE PROS
PICK LIKE THE PROSLineup Lab is an advanced MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL daily fantasy lineup optimizer for Fanduel, Draftkings, and Yahoo. Pros use a DFS optimizer, so why don't you? Pick like the pros. Use the worlds most advanced projections and optimization techniques. Join today, and start winning!
start winning

Tag Archives

16 Articles

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/24/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*

Wednesday’s NBA schedule is jam-packed with 11 games. There are a ton of value plays to consider, as a result. Let’s get right down to business and examine some to target for your entry. 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

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/24/18

Derrick Rose, MIN at TOR
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,400

Tom Thibodeau loves him some Derrick Rose. The two have a long-standing relationship since their days with the Bulls and Thibodeau clearly plans to play him a lot this season, or, at least for as long as Rose is healthy. Rose is averaging 28 minutes per contest, helping him post 14.8 rebounds, 3.8 rebounds, and five assists. Rose is not a good three-pointer shooter, but his 23.5% usage rate is encouraging for his scoring upside. Look for him to get enough time on the floor Wednesday to provide value at this price.

Isaiah Canaan, PHO vs. LAL
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,300

With the ugliness that is the Suns’ point guard position, Canaan has started each of their first three games. Devin Booker is also helping to facilitate their offense, but Canaan has still been able to log 30 minutes per contest. Canaan can go damage from behind the arc, so the added playing time has helped him average 10 points and two three-pointers per contest. The Lakers play at the fastest pace (108.7 possessions per game) in the league, so Canaan could be in line for even more opportunities to score in this contest.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/24/18

Eric Gordon, HOU vs. UTA
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $5,800

Chris Paul will be out due to his suspension again Wednesday, leaving Gordon with another opportunity to start. He excelled without Paul on Sunday against the Clippers, scoring 21 points to go along with five rebounds, two assists, one steal, and five three-pointers. Across 30 starts last year, Gordon averaged 21.5 points. 2.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 3.8 three-pointers per contest. His usage rate also increased from 22% in a reserve role to 27.8% when he started.

Wesley Matthews, DAL at ATL
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,200

Matthews may not get a ton of publicity, but he’s an important part of the Mavericks. He’s averaged at least 34 minutes per game in every season that he’s been with the team, including through the first three games this year. His field goal percentage usually isn’t great, but he’s still managed to average 13.8 points and 2.2 three-pointers per game for his career. The Hawks have allowed 122.7 points per game, making Matthews a strong option to consider based on his minutes floor.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/24/18

T.J. Warren, PHO vs. LAL
FanDuel = $5,700
DraftKings = $4,800

Warren started all 65 games that he played in last year, but he’s moved to the bench this season. His playing time has dropped from 33 minutes to 23 minutes per game, but his usage rate has increased from 24.9% to a whopping 29.6%. He should continue to see the bulk of the scoring opportunities with the Suns’ second unit, making him a great option in what should be a high-scoring contest versus the Lakers.

Jae Crowder, UTA at HOU
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $4,800

This game sets up really well for Crowder. The Rockets like to play a lot of small lineups and will have their depth challenged with both Paul and James Ennis (hamstring) out. They also play at the eighth-fastest pace (105) in the league. Crowder plays a crucial role within the second unit for the Jazz, helping him average 30 minutes per contest. He’s cashed in the added playing time by averaging 15 points, 6.7 rebounds and two three-pointers.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/24/18

Markieff Morris, WAS at GS
FanDuel = $5,700
DraftKings = $5,700

Speaking of dealing with limited depth, the Wizards frontcourt is hurting entering play Wednesday. Dwight Howard (back) will be out yet again and has yet to play a game this season. Fill in starter Ian Mahinmi is listed as questionable with a back injury of his own. Even if he does play, this is not a good matchup for him considering all the small lineups the Warriors like to deploy. Morris is averaging 16.3 points, seven rebounds, one steal, 1.7 blocks and three three-pointers across 27 minutes per game this year and should at least see similar playing time in this contest, if not more.

Dwight Powell, DAL at ATL
FanDuel = $4,700
DraftKings = $5,000

Powell is only averaging 17 minutes a game, but his 26.3 percent usage rate has helped him average 15.7 points. Both numbers are likely to decline over the course of the season, but he’s proven the Mavericks can rely on him for however long it takes Dirk Nowitzki to return from injury. The Hawks will again be without John Collins (ankle) on Wednesday, leaving Powell with a chance to thrive against their weak frontcourt.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/24/18

JaVale McGee, LAL at PHO
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,300

McGee isn’t going to last as a value play for much longer. His price is steadily climbing because he’s averaging 15 points, 7.3 rebounds, and three blocks through three games. Having excellent passers around him like LeBron James, Rajon Rondo and Lonzo Ball is going to help him get a lot of easy buckets and he’s proven to be a force when it comes to blocks. Facing Deandre Ayton might not be an easy task, but McGee is still in line for valuable performance.

Myles Turner, IND at SA
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,800

Is this finally the year that Turner breaks out? Well, it certainly doesn’t look like it through four games. With averages of just 12.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game, a lot of Turner’s value on a nightly basis hinges on his ability to block shots. Luckily, he hasn’t disappointed in that department with 1.8 rejections per contest. Domantas Sabonis eats into some of Turner’s playing time, but it’s not often that you can roster Turner at this cheap of a price. It might be worth taking a chance on him in tournament play.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/22/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*

We’ve got nine games on the NBA schedule Monday, including an exciting matchup between the Lakers and Spurs. Let’s try to add even more fun to the evening with some winning entries in DFS. Here are some cheaper players who could provide significant returns based on their matchups. Don’t forget to sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/22/18

J.J. Barea, DAL vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,900

The Mavericks certainly have a lot to be excited about with two promising young players in Luka Doncic and Dennis Smith Jr. They also have some valuable veterans on this roster. One of them is Barea, who has been stalwart of their second unit for many years. This season has been no different with him averaging 10.5 points, two rebounds, 10.5 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.5 three-pointers over his first two games. Although he doesn’t log a ton of minutes, he can still be valuable based on his 20.6 percent usage rate and ability to rack up assists.

Bryn Forbes, SA at LAL
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,600

If it wasn’t for bad luck, the Spurs would have no luck at all this season when it comes to their point guards. Dejounte Murray (knee) is out for the year and Derrick White is still working his way back from a heel injury. Forbes has started both games in their absence, averaging 14 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, one steal, and three three-pointers. He’s not your traditional point guard in terms of his assists, but his ability to shoot from behind the arc leaves him with upside, especially against a Lakers team that plays at such a fast pace.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/22/18

Josh Hart, LAL vs. SA
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,100

The Lakers will be without two key parts of their rotation for this game with Rajon Rondo and Brandon Ingram both suspended. Several players will likely be in line for increased opportunities, including Hart. He’s already off to a good start, averaging 15.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.5 steals, 1.5 blocks and two three-pointers per game. He’s also seen his usage rate skyrocket from 13.5% last year to 21.6% this season.

Wesley Matthews, DAL vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $5,000

Another veteran who plays a significant role for the Mavericks is Matthews. He’s averaged 35 minutes across their first two games and has logged at least 34 minutes per contest in each of his previous three seasons with the team. His numbers aren’t off the charts, but he’s averaged at least 12.5 points per game in each of those seasons in large part because he’s also contributed at least 2.4 three-pointers per contest. The Bulls have allowed an average of 112.5 points across their first two games.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/22/18

Trevor Ariza, PHO at GS
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,100

The Suns have a lot of talented young players on their team and added Ariza over the summer to provide some veteran leadership. His first game with the team couldn’t have gone much better, posting 21 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and five three-pointers against the Mavericks. However, he came crashing back down to Earth with five points and three rebounds in their subsequent game against the Nuggets. The good news is he played at least 29 minutes in both contests and should have a significant role moving forward. With all the small lineups the Warriors like to deploy, look for Ariza to be heavily involved Monday.

Jae Crowder, UTA vs. MEM
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,700

Crowder showed a lot of promise during his tenure with the Celtics, but his brief stint with the Cavaliers in the first half of last season was a train wreck. He played much better after being dealt to the Jazz, averaging 11.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 0.9 steals and 1.8 three-pointers per contest. The Jazz have given him a significant role off the bench this year, as well, helping him post 15 points, six rebounds, one steal and two three-pointers per game. They have also played at the fifth-fastest pace (110.7 possessions per game) in the early going, making Crowder a viable option for your entry.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/22/18

Serge Ibaka, TOR vs. CHA
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,300

With the league trending towards smaller lineups, you could see the writing on the wall when it came to playing time for Jonas Valanciunas. He averaged a career-low 22 minutes per game last year and has only logged 18 minutes per contest through the first three games this season. Ibaka has been the Raptors preferred option up front when they do go small, helping him average 29 minutes a game. While he’s not putting up the gaudy block numbers like he did during his tenure with the Thunder, Ibaka has still been excellent this year with 15.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, one steal and 1.7 blocks per game. The Hornets like to play small, so look for Ibaka to see plenty of minutes Monday.

Dwight Powell, DAL vs. CHI
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $5,100

The Mavericks desperately needed to add talent at center and they did just that by bringing in DeAndre Jordan. They still don’t have a ton of talent up front, though, and are missing Dirk Nowitzki as he recovers from an ankle injury. Powell has been extremely involved as a member of their second unit with a 29.1% usage rate. That’s not going to hold up, but he’s going to get added opportunities to produce until Nowitzki returns. Based on how poorly the Bulls have played on the defensive end, Powell could be in line to extend his hot start.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Lineup Picks for 10/22/18

Myles Turner, IND at MIN
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $6,000

Turner was a trendy pick for a breakout campaign last year, but he didn’t show much improvement. In fact, his 47.9% field goal percentage was the lowest mark of his young career. He’s had an inconsistent start this year, but that could be partly because the Pacers haven’t had a game yet that was decided by fewer than 17 points. Karl-Anthony Towns isn’t a great defender and Turner has the ability to contribute plenty of blocks, leaving him with upside Monday.

JaVale McGee, LAL vs. SA
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,900

McGee has done a great job for the Lakers. They like to use a lot of small lineups, but McGee has averaged 21 minutes a game as their starting center. After being relegated to an extremely limited role with the Warriors, McGee has cashed in his added playing time this year for 14.5 points, seven rebounds and four blocks per contest. Even though Rondo won’t play, McGee still has LeBron James and Lonzo Ball to create scoring opportunities for him. If he keeps playing like this, he won’t be this cheap for much longer.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 2/8/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 2/8/18

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

J.J. Barea, DAL at GS
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,700

The Mavericks have struggled to score this season, which has resulted in Barea posting the second-highest usage rate (25%) on the team. He’s played well in his first three matchups against the Warriors this season, averaging 13.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per contest. Combine his usage rate with the fact that the Warriors play at the second-fastest pace (102.6 possessions per game) in the league and Barea becomes a viable option for your entry.

Fred VanVleet, TOR vs. NY
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $4,600

VanVleet has been given more playing time lately, logging at least 20 minutes in each of his last five games. He’s made the most of the opportunity, averaging 14.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 2.0 three-pointers per contest. He gets a great matchup against a depleted Knicks squad Thursday that allows the sixth-most points per game on FanDuel and the seventh-most points per game on DraftKings to opposing point guards. At this price, he might be worth the risk.

 

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Josh Hart, LAL vs. OKC
FanDuel = $6,300
DraftKings = $5,500

Hart has started each of the last three games for the Lakers, logging at least 31 minutes in each contest. He hasn’t let the Lakers down, averaging 14.7 points, 12.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.3 steals and 2.7 three-pointers per contest. The Lakers won each game, so look for him to stick in the starting lineup with Lonzo Ball (knee) still sidelined. He just scored 14 points and grabbed 11 rebounds against the Thunder on Sunday and should be someone to consider again in their rematch.

Wesley Matthews, DAL at GS
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,800

Matthews is not a great offensive player, but he still has value because he plays a lot on a Mavericks team thin on talent. He only has a 17.5% usage rate, but he’s averaging 34 minutes per game. He has also played well in three games against the Warriors this season, averaging 16.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.0 steal and 3.7 three-pointers per contest. The price is right to take a chance on him again Thursday.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Michael Beasley, NY at TOR
FanDuel = $6,200
DraftKings = $6,300

Kristaps Porzingis (knee) is out for the season, likely leaving Beasley to take over as the Knicks starting power forward. He is a volume scorer and has played well when given extended playing time this season, averaging 25.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.2 blocks in six games where he has played at least 30 minutes. His priced already jumped up significantly, but it’s still low enough to make him worth consideration for your entry.

Mario Hezonja, ORL vs. ATL
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,300

The Magic will be without Aaron Gordon (hip) again on Thursday, marking the sixth straight game he will miss. Hezonja has played at least 25 minutes in each of the first five games that Gordon was sidelined, averaging 15.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 3.2 three-pointers per contest. The Magic play at the seventh-fastest pace (101) in the league and get to face a bad Hawks team Thursday, leaving Hezonja with upside.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Dwight Powell, DAL at GS
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $4,500

Powell has started each of the last three games for the Mavericks, averaging 10.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists in those three contests. He averaged 29 minutes per game in those three starts compared to 19 minutes per game on the season overall. The added playing time gives him a big boost in value, especially Thursday considering the pace at which the Warriors play. At this price, he’s worth taking a chance on in tournament play.

Jerami Grant, OKC at LAL
FanDuel = $5,200
DraftKings = $4,800

The Thunder have one of the thinnest benches in the league, leaving Grant as one of the best members of their second unit. He’s currently having one of his best stretches of the season, averaging 12.3 points and 6.7 rebounds in his last six games. Thursday brings a favorable matchup against the Lakers, who play at the fastest pace (103) and allow the fifth-most points per game (109.7) in the league. Both Russell Westbrook (ankle) and Carmelo Anthony (ankle) are listed as questionable as well, so the Thunder might really need to lean on Grant if either of them can’t play. Even if they both do take the floor, Grant is still a viable option for your entry.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Steven Adams, OKC at LAL
FanDuel = $6,900
DraftKings = $6,700

Adams continues to anchor the middle for the Thunder, posting a double-double in eight of his last 13 games. He’s provided value defensively as well, recording at least three steals in five games during that same stretch. In his first three meetings with the Lakers this season, Adams averaged 15.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 1.7 blocks per contest. His price isn’t that cheap, but it’s still reasonable enough to give him value Thursday.

Kyle O’Quinn, NY at TOR
FanDuel = $4,000
DraftKings = $4,400

The Knicks are clearly sellers heading into Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, so you’ll have to keep an eye on O’Quinn’s status throughout the day as he could be dealt. If he isn’t traded though, he is going to be in line for significant playing time Thursday with Porzingis and Enes Kanter (mouth) out and Willy Hernangomez traded to the Hornets. He has played at least 20 minutes in a game 15 times this season, averaging 10.7 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.3 blocks per contest. He could end up being one of the better value plays of the night if he’s still on the Knicks.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 1/26/18

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers for 1/26/18

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 vs. PHI
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,400

Murray has started the last three games at point guard for the Spurs since taking over the job from Tony Parker, averaging 12.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 3.3 steals per game. Murray is not going to provide big assist totals and is not a good three-point shooter, but he is going to provide added value with both rebounds and steals. The Sixers play at the second-fastest pace (102.8 possessions per game) in the league, leaving Murray with added opportunities to provide value Friday.

Milos Teodosic, LAC at MEM
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $4,700

Teodosic’s first season in the league has been a struggle due to injuries and inconsistent production when he has been able to take the floor. His shot has been off for large portions of the season as he is shooting just 38.3% from the field. However, he’s shown the ability to provide value, producing at least 12 points, five assists and three three-pointers in three of his last five games. At this cheap price, he could be worth taking a chance on in tournament play.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Wesley Matthews, DAL vs. POR
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $5,300

The Mavericks don’t have a lot of talent on their roster, which has left Matthews to average 34 minutes per game this season. That’s nothing unusual for Matthews though, who has averaged at least 33 minutes per game in each of the last eight seasons. He’s been productive of late, averaging 18.6 points, 3.4 points, 2.8 assists, 1.4 steals and 3.8 three-pointers over his last five games. One of those games came against these same Trail Blazers when he scored 23 points in 38 minutes. The price is right to take a chance on him again in their rematch.

Zach LaVine, CHI vs. LAL
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,900

The Bulls have slowly increased LaVine’s minutes since he returned from a knee injury, topping out at 24 minutes in each of the last two games. He looked great in both contests, averaging 20.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.0 three-pointers. He could play 26-28 minutes Friday, which is significant news considering the Lakers play at the fastest pace (103.2) in the league. He’s an elite offensive talent who can provide upside even in limited minutes.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Brandon Ingram, LAL at CHI
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $6,200

Ingram has missed some time recently due to an ankle injury but looks to be healthy now, playing 33 minutes Tuesday against the Celtics. He’s struggling to find his shot, shooting a combined 9-for-31 from the field in his last three games. However, Friday brings an excellent matchup against a Bulls team that is struggling defensively. Ingram played well against them in their first meeting earlier this season as well, finishing with 17 points, five rebounds, five assists, one steal and two blocks. Don’t be surprised if Ingram gets himself back on track in this game.

Dillon Brooks, MEM vs. LAC
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $4,200

The injury bug has bitten the Grizzlies, who will be without JaMychal Green (ankle), Chandler Parsons (knee) and James Ennis III (calf) on Friday. To make matters worse, Jarrell Martin (knee, ankle) is also listed as questionable. The Grizzlies just need healthy bodies at this point, so Brooks should see plenty of playing time. Brooks has logged at least 27 minutes in each of his last six games, posting averages of 14.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 2.0 three-pointers per contest. He could provide significant upside at this dirt cheap price.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Kyle Kuzma, LAL at CHI
FanDuel = $5,600
DraftKings = $6,300

Kuzma can explode offensively in any game, which is exactly what he did scoring 28 points in 27 minutes Tuesday against a strong defensive team in the Celtics. He hit five three-pointers in that game and has made 15 three-pointers over his last five contests. The Bulls like to play small and have a lot of bigs who play around the perimeter, which is a perfect fit for Kuzma’s style of play. If Kuzma catches fire again in this game, he could significantly outproduce his price point.

Dirk Nowitzki, DAL vs. POR
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $4,500

Nowitzki is only averaging 25 minutes per game this year and is a shell of his former self offensively, scoring less than 10 points in four of his last five games. The Mavericks have been using him at center this season, but he’s only averaging 5.5 rebounds and 0.5 blocks per contest. There is hope for playing him Friday though as he played very well against these same Trail Blazers on Saturday, scoring 21 points on 8-of-12 from the field. He can score in a hurry like that still if his shot is falling and he won’t cost much, so he could be a sneaky tournament option to consider.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Sleepers

Enes Kanter, NY at PHO
FanDuel = $6,200
DraftKings = $6,900

Kanter went through a stretch where he was only seeing limited playing time, but he has logged at least 26 minutes in eight of his last nine games. He scored at least 15 points and grabbed at least seven rebounds in six of those eight games, continuing his recent success from earlier this season. The Suns have a lot of size and depth at center, so Kanter should see enough minutes again Friday to be worth considering for your entry.

Greg Monroe, PHO vs. NY
FanDuel = $4,700
DraftKings = $5,700

The Suns’ center rotation can be an extreme source of frustration, with really no consistency of who plays when. Monroe has managed to play both of the last two games, averaging 17.5 points and 12.0 rebounds per contest. Alex Len (ankle) did not play in the team’s last game Wednesday and is listed as questionable for Friday, so Monroe could get significant playing time again if he Len can’t play. Keep an eye on Len’s status throughout the day and get Monroe in your lineup if he does get ruled out.

 

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 12/22/17 – Value Plays

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 12/22/17 – Value Plays



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

With nine games on the NBA schedule Friday, there are a lot of lineup possibilities for your DFS entry. That also means there are more opportunities to add some cheaper value plays to your entry. Let’s examine only those value plays today as we attempt to end your week on a high note.

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Austin Rivers, LAC at HOU
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,600

With the bevy of injuries suffered by the Clippers this season, Rivers is averaging a career-high 33 minutes per game. He also has a career-high 21.7% usage rate, which brings him significant value when you factor in the added playing time. The Rockets play at the eighth-fastest pace (101.5) in the league, so Rivers should have added opportunity to provide value. The price is right to consider him for your entry Friday.

Shabazz Napier, POR vs. DEN
FanDuel = $3,700
DraftKings = $4,300

Napier has shown the ability to provide some scoring punch off the bench, averaging 8.0 points in 17 minutes per game this season. He doesn’t provide much in the way of rebounds or assists, but his 1.2 steals per game is impressive considering his limited minutes. Damian Lillard (hamstring) will not play Friday and while Napier might not start in his place, he still should see added minutes. The Nuggets allow the fourth-most points per game on FanDuel and fifth-most points per game on DraftKings to opposing point guards, so Napier might be worth the risk at this very cheap price.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Eric Gordon, HOU vs. LAC
FanDuel = $5,400
DraftKings = $5,900

Gordon is expected to enter the starting lineup with Chris Paul (leg) out Friday, which is a role he thrived in earlier this season. He made 13 starts with Paul out previously, averaging 22.0 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 4.0 three-pointers per game. The Clippers are struggling right now and don’t have a lot of size outside of DeAndre Jordan, which is great news for the style that Gordon and the Rockets like to play. I can’t get him in my lineups fast enough.

Wesley Matthews, DAL at MIA
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,600

The Mavericks are not just a bad team, they are a bad team that can’t score as they are one of only five teams in the league averaging less than 100 points per game. Matthews is not a great offensive weapon at this stage of his career, but his average of 12.0 points per game is tied for third-highest on the team. The good news is he gets a lot of playing time, averaging 34 minutes per game for his third straight season. His ceiling isn’t very high, but he’s cheap enough to consider Friday.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Josh Richardson, MIA vs. DAL
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $6,100

Richardson is going to be too expensive to be considered as this type of value play if he keeps up his recent excellent play. The Heat have been decimated by injuries, leaving Richardson to average 24.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.7 steals, 1.7 blocks and 3.3 three-pointers over his last three games. Hassan Whiteside (knee) and James Johnson (ankle) will be out again Friday while Justise Winslow (knee) might not play again either. Richardson should have a big role again in this game, making him someone to strongly to consider for your entry.

Mario Hezonja, ORL vs. NO
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $4,700

Hezonja only scored 12 points and grabbed two rebounds Wednesday against the Bulls, but he only played 24 minutes as the Magic were down big early. Both Aaron Gordon (calf) and Evan Fournier (ankle) are doubtful for Friday, which should leave significant playing time open for Hezonja. The Magic and Pelicans are both in the top-seven in the league in pace of play, so take a chance that he rebounds with a better performance in this contest. Of note, Hezonja is small forward eligible only on FanDuel as he is listed as a shooting guard on DraftKings.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Larry Nance Jr., LAL at GS
FanDuel = $5,100
DraftKings = $5,200

The Lakers will be without starting center Brook Lopez (ankle) for the next three weeks, opening up minutes in their frontcourt. While Kyle Kuzma rightfully stole all the headlines with his play Wednesday against the Rockets, Nance was no slouch either. He played 22 minutes in the game, finishing with 13 points, nine rebounds, four assists and one steal. This should be a high-scoring game between the Lakers and Warriors as they are both in the top-four in the league in terms of pace of play. Kuzma is priced significantly higher and will be a great option Friday, but Nance should also be considered an excellent value play.

Mike Scott, WAS at BKN
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $4,600

Scott is rolling right now, averaging 21.7 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.3 three-pointers over his last three games. He played at least 23 minutes in all three of those contests, largely because of Otto Porter Jr. (hip) missing time due to injury. Porter is listed as questionable for Friday’s game against the Nets, so Scott would likely be in line for increased playing time if he sits again. The Nets play at the fourth-fastest pace (103.3) in the league, so scoring opportunities could be plentiful for Scott. If Porter is ruled out, make sure Scott is in your lineup.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks - Value Plays

Marcin Gortat, WAS at BKN
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $5,200

Gortat is not having a great season and has played especially poorly of late, scoring nine points or less in seven of his last nine games. One of those performances came against these same Nets when he only scored five points, but he somewhat salvaged the game by grabbing nine rebounds and dishing out three assists. Even though the Nets added some size up front in Jahlil Okafor, he has barely played as the team tries to improve his conditioning and get him familiar with their offense. There aren’t many great cheap options at center, but Gortat has potential based on the Nets struggles at center.

Nene Hilario, HOU vs. LAC
FanDuel = $3,700
DraftKings = $3,700

Clint Capela (knee) is listed as doubtful for Friday, which would likely lead to Nene playing a more significant role. He only scored four points to go along with six rebounds while helping fill in for Capela on Wednesday, but that was not a good matchup against a Lakers team that went with a lot of small lineups. The Rockets are going to need him to battle with DeAndre Jordan on Friday, which is much better suited for Nene’s game. Considering how little he will cost, he could provide nice value if you want to go really cheap at center.

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 12/14/17

by Mike Barner 0 Comments

*Mike Barner*

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks for 12/14/17



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

POINT GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

Spencer Dinwiddie, BKN vs. NY
FanDuel = $7,700
DraftKings = $6,700

Dinwiddie has continued to get plenty of playing time in the Nets’ injury-riddled backcourt, logging at least 30 minutes in eight of his last nine games. He’s been solid in 15 starts this season, averaging 14.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 7.6 assists and 2.4 three-pointers per game. The Knicks struggle to defend point guards, allowing the third-most FanDuel points per game and fourth-most DraftKings points per game to the position. With no elite options available at point guard Thursday, Dinwiddie may have one of the best performances of the night.

J.J. Barea, DAL at GS
FanDuel = $5,500
DraftKings = $5,600

Barea hasn’t moved into the starting lineup with Dennis Smith Jr. (hip) out the last three games, but he’s provided scoring punch off the bench with at least 16 points in each of the last two games. He doesn’t need to be scoring to provide value either as he has dished out at least six assists in nine of his last 10 games. His 26.3% usage rate puts him ahead of players like Kemba Walker, Goran Dragic, and Kyle Lowry, so he’s heavily involved when he’s on the floor. Considering the Warriors play at the fifth-fastest pace (103.3) in the league, Barea has upside at this price.

SHOOTING GUARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

Caris LeVert, BKN vs. NY
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $5,400

LeVert has established himself as an important member of the Nets bench, averaging 16.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.3 three-pointers over his last four games. With all their injuries at point guard, he’s done a nice job of helping run the offense as a member of the second unit. The Nets play at the second-fastest pace (104.4) in the league, which helps create more opportunities for LeVert to contribute. With the Knicks struggles on defense, LeVert is a viable option for your entry.

Wesley Matthews, DAL at GS
FanDuel = $5,100
DraftKings = $4,600

The Mavericks have really struggled offensively as they are one of only four teams in the league averaging less than 100 points per game. While Matthews will never be confused as being an elite scorer, his 12.4 points per game are third-most on the team. One of the two players who scorers more than Matthews is Smith, so the Mavericks will really need Matthews to step up if they have any chance of keeping this game close. With the added opportunities to produce, Matthews is someone to consider at this discounted price.

SMALL FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

LeBron James, CLE vs. LAL
FanDuel = $12,600
DraftKings = $11,900

James continues to dominate the league, posting two triple-doubles and seven double-doubles in his last 10 games. He’s as close to automatic as they come with his production as his 30.4% usage rate is tenth-best in the league. You can go on for days with stats about how excellent James has been, giving him a very high floor in DFS. He’s going to cost a ton, but he can still provide value against a weak defensive team in the Lakers on Thursday.

Andre Iguodala, GS vs. DAL
FanDuel = $4,700
DraftKings = $4,200

Iguodala could be in for an expanded role Thursday with Stephen Curry (ankle) out and Draymond Green (shoulder) listed as doubtful. Both Curry and Green play significant roles in running the Warriors offense, so expect Iguodala to potentially provide extra assists with both likely out. The Mavericks also like to play small, which could lead to some extra run for Iguodala. On a night with limited cheap options with value, Iguodala might be your best bet to save some money at small forward.

POWER FORWARDS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

Kristaps Porzingis, NY at BKN
FanDuel = $10,200
DraftKings = $9,600

Porzingis is showing no ill effects from a recent ankle injury, playing at least 36 minutes in three straight games. He took advantage of two bad defenses in the Lakers and Hawks his last two games, scoring at least 30 points in both contests. Not only was he great offensively, but he combined for eight blocks and three steals as well. Even with the addition of Jahlil Okafor, the Nets are still lacking depth up front. Porzingis already torched them for 30 points, nine rebounds, three blocks and one steal earlier this season, so get ready for the encore.

Taj Gibson, MIN vs. SAC
FanDuel = $5,800
DraftKings = $5,900

Gibson has been somewhat of a security blanket for coach Tom Thibodeau this season as he is averaging 34 minutes per game compared to only 17 minutes per game for Gorgui Dieng. He coached Gibson in Chicago and clearly plans to play him a ton, which is no surprise considering Thibodeau’s history of giving his starters big minutes. The volume has made Gibson fantasy relevant as he’s averaging 11.0 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Expect big minutes and solid numbers from him again Thursday.

CENTERS

NBA Daily Fantasy Basketball Lineup Picks

Karl-Anthony Towns, MIN vs. SAC
FanDuel = $10,100
DraftKings = $9,100

Believe it or not, Towns has actually had his playing time decrease in the second year of the Thibodeau era. Don’t be alarmed though, he’s still averaging a whopping 35 minutes per game. His scoring is understandably down with Jimmy Butler now in the fold, but he’s still been fantastic by averaging 20.1 points and 11.8 rebounds per game. The Kings struggle to defend opposing centers, allowing the second-most points on both FanDuel and DraftKings to the position. Look for a big performance in this game from Towns.

Willie Cauley-Stein, SAC at MIN
FanDuel = $6,000
DraftKings = $5,100

Cauley-Stein recently missed three games with a back injury but returned to play 29 minutes Tuesday against the Phoenix Suns. It’s encouraging he played so many minutes right off the bat, especially considering the Kings crazy frontcourt rotations. Cauley-Stein has played much better off the bench this season, posting a 24.5% usage rate with the second unit compared to 17.8% as a starter. He should be needed for heavy minutes against the Timberwolves big frontcourt, making him someone to definitely consider.