DFSGhost 
Tonight’s NBA schedule is filled with intrigue. Multiple teams have players that contending teams covet, while others are missing some of their best players. It’s a Wet Wednesday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.
Be sure to use our proprietary NBA projections and cheat sheet to build your lineups as the news rolls in. Moreover, join the conversation in the Win Daily Discord to get the insight you need from both subscribers and staff.
San Antonio Spurs @ Toronto Raptors (-9.5)
San Antonio Spurs (+9.5)
Not only do the Spurs have many players that contending teams desperately want, but their current roster is also riddled with injuries. The trio of Keldon Johnson, Tre Jones, and Jeremy Sochan are at risk of missing this game, with the latter being listed as doubtful. Moreover, Jones has missed the team’s last two games, while Devin Vassell is also out after having knee surgery. This injury report will be key to monitor throughout the day, as the Spurs will be one of the primary sources of value plays for this NBA slate.
Toronto Raptors (-9.5)
The most intriguing team heading into the NBA trade deadline is north of the border. The Raptors have had a disappointing season, to say the least. While Pascal Siakam is posting better numbers than his All-NBA seasons of 2020 and 2022, the team has struggled mightily. OG Anunoby remains out with a wrist injury and is one of, if not the most coveted player on the trading block across the league. Moreover, Fred VanVleet and Gary Trent Jr. join Siakam in a long list of core players potentially on the move. Should the Raptors sit players out, be sure to adjust accordingly.
Golden State Warriors @ Portland Trail Blazers (-4.5)
Golden State Warriors (+4.5)
It will be a lather, rinse, and repeat scenario with the Warriors offense until Steph Curry makes his return. On Monday, both Jordan Poole and Klay Thompson were highlighted as core plays, and the backcourt tandem came through. Poole and Thompson combined for 53 points, with Thompson knocking down 12 of 16 shot attempts from behind the arc. Portland struggles mightily versus primary ball handlers, ranking 24th in the NBA, making Poole the preferred target of the two. Moreover, Draymond Green gets a friendly matchup on the inside versus Drew Eubanks, with Jusuf Nurkic ruled out with a calf injury.
Portland Trail Blazers (-4.5)
With Damian Lillard being close to the likes of Jayson Tatum and Joel Embiid on the pricing grid, the former will fly under the radar. Thus, Dame Time makes for the perfect play for this NBA slate in tournaments. The Warriors interior and wing defenses flourish thanks to Thompson and Green, but they lack perimeter defense versus primary ball handlers. They currently sit 26th in the NBA versus opposing lead guards, with Poole being a far worse defender than Curry. Lillard has posted 30 or more points in six of his last eight games, averaging 38.5/4.3/6.9 on 54.1% shooting.
Honorable Mentions:
- Sacramento Kings @ Houston Rockets (+6.5)
- Dallas Mavericks @ Los Angeles Clippers (OTB)
You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord
