NBA DFS Preview Wednesday 3/13/24

Toronto Raptors at Detroit Pistons

• Spotlight on youth: With the Raptors focusing on developing their young talent in the absence of Scottie Barnes, players like Immanuel Quickley and Ochai Agbaji become intriguing DFS picks. Their increased minutes and roles could translate to higher fantasy outputs.
• Injury concerns: RJ Barrett and D.J. Carton are out. Quickley and Gary Trent are questionable, which could further shuffle the deck for Toronto’s rotation. Monitor the injury report closely as this could open up value plays.
• Pistons’ potential: Despite Detroit’s record, their young core has shown flashes of brilliance. Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey could exploit the Raptors’ defense, making them solid plays. Ausar Thompson‘s status is worth watching; if he plays, he could be a sleeper pick due to his all-around game.

Brooklyn Nets at Orlando Magic

• Magic’s home court advantage: With Orlando strong at home and the Nets struggling on the road, key Magic players like Franz Wagner and Wendell Carter Jr. could have elevated performances.
• Nets’ inconsistent lineup: With injuries hampering their season, look for Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving to carry the load offensively. Cameron Johnson‘s status as a game-time decision means there could be value in rostering alternative Nets should he sit.

Chicago Bulls at Indiana Pacers

• Haliburton as a cornerstone: Coming off a strong performance, Tyrese Haliburton is a must-consider against the Bulls. His ability to stuff the stat sheet makes him a top pick for the night.
• Bulls’ reliance on DeRozan: With Chicago missing key players, DeMar DeRozan‘s usage should be through the roof. Expect him to take a lot of shots and be a primary source of offense, making him a high-floor DFS option.

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Denver Nuggets at Miami Heat

• Jokic leading the charge: Nikola Jokic‘s recent triple-double showcases why he’s always a top DFS play. Against a struggling Heat defense, he could be in for another big night.
• Heat’s struggling stars: With Jimmy Butler probable but battling illness, Bam Adebayo becomes an even more crucial piece for Miami. His ability to contribute across categories makes him a solid pick, especially if Butler is limited.

Cleveland Cavaliers at New Orleans Pelicans

• Garland’s scoring punch: Darius Garland has been carrying the Cavs’ offense with multiple key players out. His scoring and assist potential against the Pelicans make him a strong play.
• Pelicans flying high: New Orleans is on a win streak, with Zion Williamson and CJ

McCollum leading the way. Both have high upside in a matchup that could see plenty of scoring. Zion’s all-around game and McCollum’s shooting touch make them prime DFS candidates.

Charlotte Hornets at Memphis Grizzlies

• Grizzlies’ depth on display: With several key players sidelined, Memphis will lean on its younger talents. This could mean increased minutes and usage for someone like Desmond Bane, making him a potential DFS gem.
• Hornets’ bright spots: Despite Charlotte’s struggles, players like Terry Rozier and Miles Bridges offer consistency and high ceilings due to their roles. Their ability to contribute in multiple categories makes them worthy of consideration.

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Golden State Warriors at Dallas Mavericks

• Doncic’s dominance: Luka Doncic is on an incredible run, and against a Warriors team without Stephen Curry, he’s poised for another huge night. His ability to fill up the stat sheet makes him almost a must-start.
• Warriors’ adjustments: With Curry out, players like Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins will need to step up. This change in roles could provide value picks for DFS players looking to capitalize on increased usage.

Atlanta Hawks at Portland Trail Blazers

• Murray’s moment: With the Hawks decimated by injuries, Dejounte Murray has taken on a larger role. His recent performances suggest he’s a top option, especially in a matchup that could favor his playstyle.
• Trail Blazers’ inconsistencies: Portland’s injury woes make their lineup hard to predict, but players like Anfernee Simons could benefit from increased opportunities. Keep an eye on the injury report for potential value plays.

Los Angeles Lakers at Sacramento Kings

• AD and LeBron’s powerhouse duo: With Anthony Davis and LeBron James leading the way, the Lakers have been on a tear. Their matchup against a defensively weak Kings team makes both players top picks for the night.
• Kings’ dynamic duo: De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis have been the driving forces for Sacramento. Their high usage and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game make them solid options against a Lakers team that can give up points.

Takeaways:

• Monitor injury reports closely, as last-minute changes can offer significant DFS value.
• Consider the matchups and playing styles, as these can indicate potential for higher-scoring games and fantasy performances.
• Usage and minutes are key, especially for players on teams missing key pieces. Look for increased roles that could lead to higher fantasy outputs.

Good luck, and may your picks lead you to the top of your DFS contests!