Friday Free Picks: NBA DraftKings Studs & Value Players

NBA Daily Fantasy Picks

The final day of the play-in tournament kicks off with a matchup between the Bulls and Heat. The over/under for this game is 208.5, with Miami entering as the 5.5-point favorite. In the Western Conference, the Thunder travel to take on the Timberwolves. Currently, Minnesota is favored by 5.5, with an over/under of 228.5.

 NBA Fantasy

Studs DFS Player

Jimmy Butler | Miami Heat

FantasyData Projection: 41 | DraftKings Cost: $9000

Jimmy Butler comes into the game as one of the more expensive options and is averaging 42.3 fantasy points per game including 45.7 over his last three games. This season, the Bulls are ranked 11th in points allowed, and Butler has a good track record against defenses in the middle third of the league. For the season, he is averaging 42.8 fantasy points against such opponents. Even with the high price, Butler is a candidate to outperform expectations.

Anthony Edwards | Minnesota Timberwolves

FantasyData Projection: 42 | DraftKings Cost: $8800

So far this season, Anthony Edwards is averaging 43.0 fantasy points per game and comes in at a price tag of $8800. However, it is worth targeting him today as he is a sure bet to get his fair share of opportunities. For the season, he has a usage rate of 30.0, which is 2nd among today’s options. Even at the high price, it’s worth paying up for Edwards, given the primary role he will be playing.

Zach LaVine | Chicago Bulls

FantasyData Projection: 40 | DraftKings Cost: $8000

If you’re looking for another option that is sure to play a big role in the team’s offense, then Zach LaVine is a strong choice. Compared to today’s other players, he is 3rd in usage rate while averaging 39.2 fantasy points per game. Not only does he have an impressive season-long usage rate, but LaVine has also surpassed his average in two straight games. Through 77 games, he has a field goal percentage of 48.5% on an average of 18.0 shot attempts.

DeMar DeRozan | Chicago Bulls

FantasyData Projection: 40 | DraftKings Cost: $7700

Most recently, DeMar DeRozan scored 23 points on 52.6% shooting against the Raptors. DeRozan has now increased his scoring total in two straight games and has a season-long average of 24.5. Compared to today’s other options, he is 5th in DFS points per game (40.6).

Value DFS Player

Mike Conley | Minnesota Timberwolves

FantasyData Projection: 28 | DraftKings Cost: $6800

In his most recent game, Mike Conley finished with 43.5 fantasy points on 23 points and 4 rebounds. Today he will be matched up against a defensive unit that is 21st in points allowed per game. Over their last three games, the Thunder are giving up 110.0 points per game which is the 12th most in that span. For the season, Conley is averaging 28.4 fantasy points per game.

Jalen Williams | Oklahoma City Thunder

FantasyData Projection: 29 | DraftKings Cost: $6400

Jalen Williams is coming off an 11-point 4 rebound performance against the Pelicans. In the game, he played a total of 39 minutes. Today, he could find himself picking up some extra opportunities at the free-throw line, with the Timberwolves ranked 29th in free-throws allowed per game. Overall, he is averaging 28.1 fantasy points and has surpassed that 33 times.

Coby White | Chicago Bulls

FantasyData Projection: 20 | DraftKings Cost: $4800

Today’s game will be the second time that Coby White has faced off against the Heat. This year he is averaging 19.4 fantasy points and finished with 22.4 in his previous game against Miami. For the season, he is averaging 23.4 minutes per game and has a usage rate of 18.0 which is 23rd among today’s options.

Taurean Prince | Minnesota Timberwolves

FantasyData Projection: 16 | DraftKings Cost: $5200

Heading into the game, Taurean Prince is taking on a Thunder defense that is near the middle of the pack at defending SF/PF’s. This year, Prince has averaged 16.5 fantasy points per contest against opponents in the middle third of the NBA at defending PFs. Also, look for his workload to go up due to the absence of Jaden McDaniels.

Matthew Davidson
Matthew is a long time fantasy football and dynasty football fan. He lives in Las Vegas and grew up rooting for the Raiders. The team moving to his hometown was very exciting news. Matthews is married and has two young boys.
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