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Eric Moody
Multiple Authors
ESPN’s daily fantasy basketball cheat sheet serves as your essential pregame resource before finalizing your lineups for the evening’s matchups. Inside, you’ll find our top recommendations for the night, including a curated list of potential streaming players and comprehensive game-by-game injury updates.
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Premier streamers | Optimal wagers | DFS selections | Odds & injury status
Key insights for Thursday’s contests
Thursday night will feature a clash between two Western Conference powerhouses as the San Antonio Spurs host the Denver Nuggets. San Antonio comes into the game riding a five-game winning streak and has secured victories in 16 of their last 17 games since February 1st, pushing their record to 48-17 and keeping them firmly in contention for the top seed in the West. Denver, with a 40-26 record, has struggled to find consistency since the All-Star break, going 5-6 and dropping to fifth place in the conference as they aim to regain momentum.
For the Nuggets, the performances of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray remain a central theme. Murray has been averaging 25.5 points and 7.1 assists per game, while Jokic has delivered a dominant stretch over his last 10 outings, putting up 29.1 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game. Denver continues to be one of the league’s most effective offensive units, though defensive inconsistencies have contributed to their fluctuating results recently.
The Spurs, meanwhile, continue to be propelled by Victor Wembanyama. The All-Star big man is averaging 24.2 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game, serving as the defensive anchor for a team that ranks third in defensive rating. San Antonio has also benefited from strong contributions from De’Aaron Fox, who has averaged 17.3 points and 6.3 assists per game while shooting 52.9% over his last 10 contests.
The betting total suggests that Thursday’s game could once again be a high-scoring affair, echoing their last encounter this season where the Spurs triumphed over the Nuggets 139-136. This matchup could serve as an early preview of a potential Western Conference playoff series, pitting Denver’s potent offense against a San Antonio squad playing its best basketball of the season.
Beyond this marquee game, here are additional narratives to consider for identifying fantasy streamers, betting opportunities, and DFS choices across Thursday’s nine-game slate.
Moody’s top fantasy stream picks for Thursday
Cameron Payne, PG/SG, Philadelphia 76ers (owned in 14.1% of ESPN leagues)
Payne presents a strong streaming option, especially with the news of Tyrese Maxey’s absence for at least three weeks due to a tendon injury in his right pinkie. Payne has invigorated the 76ers, consistently scoring at least 30 fantasy points in his last three games, including an impressive 91 against the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday. Whether he’s in the starting lineup or coming off the bench, Payne is expected to see increased opportunities and production during Maxey’s recovery. He’s also a player to consider in DFS, with a salary of $6,000.
*Additional streaming candidates in ESPN leagues can be found in the Top Daily Fantasy values of the day segment.
Moody’s favored wagers for Thursday
De’Aaron Fox OVER 24.5 points and assists (-113): The Spurs have been on an impressive streak, and Fox has been instrumental in their success. He has surpassed this line in four of his last five games, averaging 15.4 field-goal attempts and 12.5 potential assists per game during that period. Fox has excelled in an expanded offensive role as the Spurs push for the playoffs. With Victor Wembanyama’s status currently listed as questionable, Fox could become an even greater focus of the offense on Thursday night. Regardless of Wembanyama’s availability, this matchup looks favorable for Fox.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander OVER 43.5 points, rebounds and assists (-109): Gilgeous-Alexander has demonstrated strong form since recovering from his abdominal injury. While he’s only exceeded this line in one of his four games back, he has maintained a robust 31.1% usage rate during this stretch. With the Thunder grappling with several injuries, Oklahoma City will likely rely heavily on SGA in their pivotal matchup against the Celtics. I anticipate an MVP-caliber performance from him, with significant minutes logged. SGA has cleared this line in 16 of the 25 games this season where he has played at least 36 minutes.
Daniel Gafford to achieve a double-double (+294): Gafford is in an excellent position against a Grizzlies defense that has recently struggled against centers due to frontcourt injuries. He has recorded a double-double in four of his last five games where he played between 23 and 27 minutes. During this period, Gafford has averaged 7.4 field-goal attempts and 17.0 rebound chances per game. He should see ample minutes tonight facing the Grizzlies.
Today’s top Daily Fantasy value selections
Players with $8,100+ salaries
Nikola Jokic, C, Nuggets ($12,500): Jokic leads the league in triple-doubles and has maintained an impressive average of 64.9 fantasy points per game on DraftKings. While the Spurs have boasted a strong defense throughout the season, Jokic is arguably the league’s top center and remains matchup-proof. This game features one of the highest totals on the slate, and the spread suggests a competitive contest. Jokic has averaged 36.8 PPG, 11.3 RPG, and 8.5 APG in six career games against Wembanyama.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, PG, Oklahoma City Thunder ($11,200): Gilgeous-Alexander has posted at least 42 fantasy points in each of his last five games, including an astonishing 75.8 against the Nuggets on Monday, March 9. His season average of 51.4 fantasy points per game is a testament to his versatile contributions across all statistical categories. Tonight’s game against the Celtics is expected to be tighter than the spread indicates, ensuring SGA sees heavy minutes. In games this season where he has played at least 34 minutes, SGA has averaged 33.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 5.9 APG, and 1.2 SPG.
Jalen Johnson, PF, Atlanta Hawks ($10,800): Whenever the Hawks are on the schedule, Johnson is a must-consider option, currently in the midst of a remarkable season. He offers DFS players a high floor, averaging 50.8 fantasy points per game, with an even higher ceiling. Tonight’s matchup against the Nets could be one of those ceiling games, as Brooklyn ranks 27th in defensive rating this season. The main drawback for Johnson is that the Hawks are significant double-digit favorites in this contest.
Players with $6,100-$8,000 salaries
Jalen Suggs, PG, Orlando Magic ($7,100): Suggs has been exceptional over his last six games, averaging 30.9 fantasy points in 28.0 minutes per game during that stretch. The Wizards rank 29th in defensive rating and sixth in pace, creating an ideal scenario for Suggs to excel. Washington has also conceded the sixth-most fantasy points per game to point guards this season.
Jalen Green, SG/SF, Phoenix Suns ($6,800): Green has been in top form recently, consistently scoring at least 34 fantasy points and attempting a minimum of 17 field goals in his last three games. He has also demonstrated effectiveness as a facilitator during this period. Over the last 15 games, the Pacers rank 28th in defensive rating. Furthermore, Indiana has allowed the most fantasy points per game to point guards over that same timeframe.
Jaylin Williams, PF/C, Thunder ($6,200): With Isaiah Hartenstein sidelined for tonight’s game, Williams stands to benefit significantly against the Celtics, as he should see increased minutes. The 23-year-old has been outstanding over his last seven games, averaging 35.7 fantasy points per contest during that span. Williams is a versatile big man capable of contributing across multiple categories, delivering points, rebounds, assists, blocks, and even an occasional three-pointer. He is also a solid streaming option, being rostered in only 8.2% of ESPN leagues.
Players with $3,000-$6,000 salaries
Royce O’Neale, PF, Suns ($5,500): O’Neale contributes in various statistical categories and is currently experiencing a surge in fantasy scoring. He has notched at least 23 fantasy points in three consecutive games, including 39.8 against the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday. O’Neale faces a Pacers frontcourt dealing with multiple injuries, and over the last 15 games, Indiana has permitted the fifth-most fantasy points per game to power forwards. O’Neale is also on the streaming radar, with a roster percentage of just 14.4%.
Daniel Gafford, C, Dallas Mavericks ($5,000): Gafford has registered at least 26 fantasy points in four consecutive games, with three instances of scoring at least 31. He has played a minimum of 22 minutes in each of those games, though he hasn’t exceeded 30 minutes. However, don’t let that deter you from Gafford, especially at this favorable price point. The Grizzlies rank 23rd in defensive rating this season, and Memphis’ frontcourt has been severely depleted by injuries, setting up Gafford for success. Over the last 15 games, the Grizzlies have allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to centers. Gafford is also a viable streaming choice, owned in 43.6% of leagues.
Tristan da Silva, SF/PF, Magic ($4,900): da Silva has provided solid contributions for the Magic with Franz Wagner out due to left ankle soreness. He has averaged 28.7 fantasy points per game over his last seven contests. Da Silva offers DFS players a reliable floor and is in an advantageous position against a Wizards team that has been a fantasy goldmine for opposing players (e.g., Bam Adebayo). He is also on the streaming radar, rostered in only 13.9% of leagues.
Projected outcomes and Injury Status
Basketball Power Index by ESPN Analytics. Injury data compiled by Rotowire.com. Odds sourced from DraftKings Sportsbook
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Detroit Pistons
7 p.m. ET on Prime Video
Line: 76ers +15.5 (-112) | Pistons -15.5 (-108)
Money line: 76ers +750 | Pistons -1200
Total: 221.5 (-110 O, -110 U)
BPI Projection: Pistons by 12, straight up 82%, 230.6 total points.
Injury Report:
76ers: Adem Bona, (GTD – Back); Joel Embiid, (OUT – Oblique); Paul George, (OUT – Suspension); Kelly Oubre Jr., (OUT – Elbow); Johni Broome, (OUT – Knee); Tyrese Maxey, (OUT – Finger)
Pistons: Caris LeVert, (GTD – Wrist); Ausar Thompson, (OUT – Ankle)
Phoenix Suns vs. Indiana Pacers
7 p.m. ET
Line: Suns -8.5 (-112) | Pacers +8.5 (-108)
Money line: Suns -410 | Pacers +320
Total: 223.5 (-115 O, -105 U)
BPI Projection: Suns by 6.9, straight up 70%, 228.0 total points.
Injury Report:
Suns: Grayson Allen, (GTD – Knee); Haywood Highsmith, (GTD – Knee); Jordan Goodwin, (GTD – Calf); Dillon Brooks, (OUT – Hand); Mark Williams, (OUT – Foot)
Pacers: Johnny Furphy, (OFS – Knee); Aaron Nesmith, (GTD – Ankle); Andrew Nembhard, (GTD – Back); Ivica Zubac, (GTD – Ankle); Pascal Siakam, (GTD – Knee); Quenton Jackson, (GTD – Calf); T.J. McConnell, (GTD – Hamstring); Tyrese Haliburton, (OFS – Achilles)
Washington Wizards vs. Orlando Magic
7 p.m. ET
Line: Wizards +13.5 (EVEN) | Magic -13.5 (-120)
Money line: Wizards +650 | Magic -1000
Total: 234.5 (-105 O, -115 U)
BPI Projection: Magic by 12.8, straight up 83%, 230.8 total points.
Injury Report:
Wizards: Bub Carrington, (GTD – Hip); Kyshawn George, (OUT – Elbow); Anthony Davis, (OUT – Finger); D’Angelo Russell, (OUT – Not Injury Related); Cam Whitmore, (OFS – Shoulder)
Magic: Anthony Black, (OUT – Abdomen); Franz Wagner, (OUT – Ankle)
Brooklyn Nets vs. Atlanta Hawks
7:30 p.m. ET
Line: Nets +15.5 (-110) | Hawks -15.5 (-110)
Money line: Nets +675 | Hawks -1050
Total: 226.5 (-105 O, -115 U)
BPI Projection: Hawks by 12.7, straight up 83%, 227.9 total points.
Injury Report:
Nets: Ziaire Williams, (GTD – Illness); Day’Ron Sharpe, (OUT – Thumb); Michael Porter Jr., (OUT – Ankle); Egor Demin, (OFS – Foot)
Hawks: Dyson Daniels, (GTD – Toe); Jonathan Kuminga, (GTD – Knee)
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Miami Heat
7:30 p.m. ET
Line: Bucks +6.5 (-110) | Heat -6.5 (-110)
Money line: Bucks +210 | Heat -258
Total: 234.5 (-112 O, -108 U)
BPI Projection: Heat by 4.9, straight up 65%, 235.5 total points.
Injury Report:
Bucks: Bobby Portis, (GTD – Back); Jericho Sims, (GTD – Knee); Kevin Porter Jr., (GTD – Knee)
Heat: Kel’el Ware, (GTD – Shoulder); Tyler Herro, (GTD – Quadriceps); Andrew Wiggins, (OUT – Toe); Norman Powell, (OUT – Groin); Nikola Jovic, (OUT – Back); Terry Rozier, (OUT – Not Injury Related)
Dallas Mavericks vs. Memphis Grizzlies
8 p.m. ET
Line: Mavericks -5.5 (-102) | Grizzlies +5.5 (-118)
Money line: Mavericks -205 | Grizzlies +170
Total: 239.5 (-110 O, -110 U)
BPI Projection: Grizzlies by 0.1, straight up 50%, 240.5 total points.
Injury Report:
Mavericks: Dereck Lively II, (OFS – Foot); Kyrie Irving, (OFS – Knee)
Grizzlies: Cam Spencer, (GTD – Back); Cedric Coward, (GTD – Knee); Ty Jerome, (GTD – Calf); Walter Clayton Jr., (GTD – Ankle); Scotty Pippen Jr., (OUT – Toe); Brandon Clarke, (OUT – Calf); Ja Morant, (OUT – Elbow); Santi Aldama, (OUT – Knee); Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, (OFS – Finger); Zach Edey, (OFS – Ankle)
Denver Nuggets vs. San Antonio Spurs
9 p.m. ET
Line: Nuggets +5.5 (-102) | Spurs -5.5 (-118)
Money line: Nuggets +185 | Spurs -225
Total: 238.5 (-112 O, -108 U)
BPI Projection: Spurs by 2.9, straight up 59%, 236.8 total points.
Injury Report:
Nuggets: Peyton Watson, (OUT – Hamstring)
Spurs: Harrison Barnes, (GTD – Ankle); Lindy Waters III, (GTD – Illness); Victor Wembanyama, (GTD – Ankle); David Jones Garcia, (OFS – Ankle)
Boston Celtics vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
9:30 p.m. ET on Prime Video
Line: Celtics +6.5 (-108) | Thunder -6.5 (-112)
Money line: Celtics +220 | Thunder -270
Total: 217.5 (-108 O, -112 U)
BPI Projection: Thunder by 6.1, straight up 68%, 217.5 total points.
Injury Report:
Celtics: Derrick White, (GTD – Knee); Jayson Tatum, (GTD – Achilles); Payton Pritchard, (GTD – Neck); Nikola Vucevic, (OUT – Finger)
Thunder: Branden Carlson, (OUT – Back); Isaiah Hartenstein, (OUT – Calf); Jalen Williams, (OUT – Hamstring); Thomas Sorber, (OFS – Knee)
Chicago Bulls vs. Los Angeles Lakers
10:30 p.m. ET
Line: Bulls +11.5 (-118) | Lakers -11.5 (-102)
Money line: Bulls +400 | Lakers -535
Total: 238.5 (-112 O, -108 U)
BPI Projection: Lakers by 8.6, straight up 75%, 235.7 total points.
Injury Report:
Bulls: Anfernee Simons, (GTD – Wrist); Collin Sexton, (GTD – Lower Leg); Guerschon Yabusele, (GTD – Foot); Isaac Okoro, (GTD – Knee); Patrick Williams, (GTD – Ankle); Jaden Ivey, (OUT – Knee); Noa Essengue, (OFS – Shoulder); Zach Collins, (OFS – Toe)
Lakers: Jaxson Hayes, (GTD – Back); LeBron James, (GTD – Hip); Marcus Smart, (GTD – Hip); Maxi Kleber, (GTD – Back)