ESPN’s daily fantasy basketball cheat sheet is your go-to guide before finalizing your lineups for the night. Here, you’ll find our top suggestions, including players to consider streaming and game-by-game injury updates.
Key Insights for Sunday
Sunday is packed with 10 NBA games, presenting both bettors and fantasy managers with various scenarios to analyze. With two-thirds of the teams competing, it’s essential to assess matchups, rotations, and injury statuses that could affect the results.
An encouraging aspect of today’s games is the return of several key players. The Portland Trail Blazers are expected to see Jrue Holiday back after a lengthy absence of 27 games due to a calf injury. His experience will be invaluable for this young Portland team. Holiday is available in about one-third of ESPN leagues. Additionally, the New York Knicks are poised to reintegrate Josh Hart, which will affect the roles of players like Miles McBride and Tyler Kolek.
The Toronto Raptors are also expecting the return of Scottie Barnes after missing recent games due to a knee issue, a significant boost as they take on the Philadelphia 76ers. The defensive capabilities of both teams could result in a lower scoring environment, so keep an eye on high-scoring games, particularly those exceeding 230 points.
With only two of the day’s 10 games having double-digit spreads, expect a competitive atmosphere. Fewer blowouts enhance lineup flexibility, allowing for more predictable playing time and overall player usage trends.
As we aim to identify valuable fantasy streamers and appealing betting options, let’s explore the NBA action for Sunday.
Fantasy Streaming Recommendations
Peyton Watson, SF/PF, Denver Nuggets (39.4% rostered): Recently, Watson has emerged as one of the top waiver-wire targets, scoring at least 21 points in five consecutive games. His performance on both ends of the court has been impressive, particularly against Milwaukee.
Cam Spencer, SG/PG, Memphis Grizzlies (25.0% rostered): With the ongoing situation around Ja Morant, Spencer has stepped up as the Grizzlies’ main playmaker, showing confidence on three-point shots.
Keldon Johnson, SF/PF, San Antonio Spurs (19.6%): Johnson delivered a credible double-double against Boston and is expected to play a crucial role again as the Spurs face the Timberwolves, particularly with Devin Vassell unavailable.
Julian Champagnie, SF, Spurs (14.2%): Champagnie has been an effective rebounder and is averaging a double-double over the past week, making him a solid fantasy asset while the Spurs’ forward rotation is light.
