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Orlando Magic

NBA DFS for Ghost’s Gems (Mar. 21)

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

With approximately ten games left in the regular season, every matchup counts for the NBA playoff picture. Moreover, others are looking to improve their position in the draft lottery. It’s a Taco Tuesday 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.

Washington Wizards @ Orlando Magic (-1.5)

Washington Wizards (+1.5)

The Wizards will be without Kyle Kuzma tonight, meaning the duo of Kristaps Porzingis and Bradley Beal will shoulder the offense. This game environment does not stand out above the others, but it has potential to be a shootout. Washington and Orlando are ranked 22nd and 16th in the NBA in pace, respectively, but also represent two bottom-ten defenses in the league. With Orlando 26th in three-pointers allowed per game, Beal will have ample opportunity to do damage from behind the arc, and has 20 or more points in eight of his last nine appearances.

Orlando Magic (-1.5)

There isn’t much to love about this offense on tonight’s NBA slate, but the Magic are in a good spot versus the Wizards. In balanced lineups, Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Wendell Carter Jr. all deserve consideration. Meanwhile, Cole Anthony has scored 14 or more points in five straight appearances, logging 27 minutes or more per game in the absence of Jalen Suggs. However, usage is spread out amongst offensive contributors. All five players have a usage rate between 21% and 27% but they do provide a safe floor in a competitive game environment.

Boston Celtics @ Sacramento Kings (+4.5)

Boston Celtics (-4.5)

In what will certainly be the best game of the NBA slate, Jayson Tatum is poised to lead the pack in scoring. While he has only posted one 30-point effort in his last four games, Tatum has a tremendous matchup tonight. The Kings are the surprise of the Western Conference, if not of the entire league this season. However, while they boast an elite offense, they sit 25th in defensive rating and are last versus the combo wing player type.

Sacramento Kings (+4.5)

While the field has been wrongfully chasing Domantas Sabonis performances in the wrong spots, including last night, tonight is a much better matchup for the leading rebounder in the NBA. Not only is Sabonis the only player in the league to averaging over 12 rebounds per game this season, but he has two triple-doubles in his last five games, while missing two others by a single assist and rebound each time. During that span, Sabonis has averaged 20.4/15.2/9.8 on 55.7% shooting. While yesterday was a much better spot for De’Aaron Fox, as evidenced in projections, Sabonis is the key to a Kings victory here tonight.

Honorable Mentions:

San Antonio Spurs @ New Orleans Pelicans (-11.5)
Oklahoma City Thunder @ Los Angeles Clippers (-6.5)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

NBA DFS for Ghost’s Gems (Jan. 25)

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

Injuries highlight the NBA slate as we approach the All-Star break. Moreover, many players are at the core of trade rumors. It’s a busy time for the league, but it makes these games all that more meaningful. It’s a Wet Wednesday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

Indiana Pacers @ Orlando Magic (-4.5)

Indiana Pacers (+4.5)

The Pacers are on the second half of a back-to-back but that won’t stop them from being one of the most popular rotations on the NBA slate. In the absence of Tyrese Haliburton, there have been many players stepping up. TJ McConnell continues to be a hot commodity in the mid range of the pricing grid, while Buddy Hield showed out after being highlighted in yesterday’s article. Moreover, Myles Turner continues to be a fantasy points per minute machine and is seeing an increased workload in the paint.

Orlando Magic (-4.5)

Despite cooling off after a hot start to his NBA career, Paolo Banchero is a tremendous play in the mid range of the pricing grid. Banchero has now scored in double digits across 12 straight appearances, averaging 19.8/5.7/3.3 on 42.4% shooting. However, his minutes have been limited during that stretch, large in part because of blowout losses. Tonight, the Magic are favored as two rebuilding teams face one another. With The Pacers lacking size on the wing, opting for smaller lineups with combo guards such as Mathurin and Hield, Panchero holds a massive size advantage against anyone he lines up against.

Washington Wizards @ Houston Rockets (+3.5)

Washington Wizards (-3.5)

Both of these teams are riddled with injuries but this is one of the best game environments on the NBA slate. Despite Kyle Kuzma acting as the primary ball handler in this offense, the sheer upside that Bradley Beal has in this matchup is too good to pass up on. Not only is his place on the pricing grid outright disrespectful, but the Rockets rank 28th in the league in defensive rating. He is far from his form that nearly led him to a scoring title in 2020-2021, but Beal is still one of the best off-ball guards in the league. The absence of Kristaps Porzingis opens up a ton of shots for Beal, who has scored 20 or more points in ten of his last fifteen appearances.

Houston Rockets (+3.5)

On the flipside of this matchup is plenty of offensive potential in its own right. In the absence of Kevin Porter Jr., both Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green have been phenomenal. The former gets a juicy matchup versus Daniel Gafford, who is simply not match for the sophomore. Sengun has three double-doubles in his last four games, averaging 24.3/12.5/6.5 during that span. Moreover, Green has scored 20 or more points in four of his last five games since KPJ went down with a foot injury. Green has averaged 28.6/3.2/3.6 on 49.5% shooting during that span, taking over 20 field goal attempts per night.

Toronto Raptors @ Sacramento Kings (-4.5)

Toronto Raptors (+4.5)

One of the most intriguing teams heading into the NBA trade deadline, the Raptors still have one of the best cores in the league. However, they have failed to return to form that won them a championship only a few years ago. Yes, Kawhi Leonard is gone, but OG Anunoby is one of the best defenders in the league, while Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes have the potential to carry this team to wins nightly. In this matchup, Gary Trent Jr. will see a lot of shot attempts versus a Kings defense the struggles on the perimeter. Moreover, Scottie Barnes will be key in defending De’Aaron Fox, while producing on offense and on the glass.

Sacramento Kings (-4.5)

Simply put, this is a tremendous matchup for Domantas Sabonis. To the surprise of no one, he is featured once again in a Kings writeup. However, the Raptors struggle on the glass, giving Sabonis great potential to dominate both ends of the paint. Over his last seven games, not only has Sabonis posted six double-doubles, but he also has eight or more assists in each one of those appearances. Sabonis has averaged a 17.4/12.9/10.9 triple-double during that span, showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Honorable Mentions:

Brooklyn Nets @ Philadelphia 76ers (-6.5)
Denver Nuggets @ Milwaukee Bucks (-6.5)
Minnesota Timberwolves @ New Orleans Pelicans (-2.5)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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NBA DFS: Ghost’s Gems 01/09

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

Although there are several stars missing in action tonight, there are still many elite matchups. Moreover, this NBA slate has potential to have several high scoring affairs. It’s a Mojito Monday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

New Orleans Pelicans @ Washington Wizards (-1.5)

New Orleans Pelicans (+1.5)

With key contributors out of each of these teams’ respective lineups, usage will be plentiful for others. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram remain out for the Pelicans, who are surprisingly underdogs to the Wizards in this one. Once again, CJ McCollum figures to be one of the most popular players on this NBA slate. On the season, the point guard sports a 26.3% usage rate and 1.10 fantasy points per minute. However, with both Williamson and Ingram off the court, McCollum sees increases to a usage rate of 31.6% and produces 1.24 fantasy points per minute. Moreover, in his last two games, McCollum has averaged 28/3.5/6 on 44.4% shooting.

Washington Wizards (-1.5)

While Bradley Beal remains out for the Wizards, both Kristaps Porzingis and Kyle Kuzma will shoulder the load on offense. However, there is another Washington player that continues to fly under the radar. Lately, Daniel Gafford has been playing excellent basketball. While he has always been a productive player on a per-minute basis, he has finally gotten enough time on the court to flourish. Startling alongside Porzingis has allowed Gafford to draw easier matchups on both ends of the court. Thus, he has been much more productive. Over his last five games, Gafford has logged 25 or more minutes in every contest. Moreover, he has averaged 13.6/8.2/1.8 on 75% shooting, despite the low usage rate and field goal attempts. New Orleans currently ranks 22nd in the NBA against centers, while allowing nearly 50 points in the paint per game.

Los Angeles Lakers @ Denver Nuggets (-8.5)

Los Angeles Lakers (+8.5)

Make no mistake about it, this organization runs through LeBron James. However, with the absences of both Lonnie Walker IV and Austin Reeves, both Russell Westbrook and Dennis Schroder have been tremendous in their respective roles. With the former continues to come off the bench, he is the favorite for Sixth Man of the Year. Over his last two games, Westbrook has averaged 20.5/8/12 through a 25.6% usage rate while logging over 32 minutes per night. Moreover, Schroder has been efficient in the starting lineup. While logging over 32 minutes per contest in each of his last five appearances, Schroder has averaged 21.4/2.6/3.8 on 50.8% shooting. Both Schroder and Westbrook have upside against a Denver defense that ranks 20th in the NBA versus secondary ball handlers.

Denver Nuggets (-8.5)

If there is a stud at the top of the pricing grid on this NBA slate that can lead it in scoring, it’s Nikola Jokic. Not only has the back-to-back MVP led his squad to the #1 seed in the Western Conference thus far, but he has been just as dominant as past years. Over his last ten games, Jokic has posted five triple-doubles. Moreover, he has averaged 25.6/10.4/10.8 on 59.4% shooting during that span. Without Anthony Davis guarding the paint, the Lakers interior defense has crumbled. They now sit 28th in the NBA versus true centers, while being ranked 24th in points allowed in the paint per game.

Orlando Magic @ Sacramento Kings (-5.5)

Orlando Magic (+5.5)

The Magic are still a rebuilding team but they can put up a fight with a healthy roster. Despite missing Bol Bol tonight, they have Jalen Suggs back and their suspended players have all returned. Paolo Banchero continues to lead the Rookie of the Year race, but his point/dollar upside is limited. Thus, this slate is more suited for Franz Wagner. Currently, Sacramento ranks last in the NBA against wings. Moreover, Wagner comes into this one having scored 20 or more points in three straight contests. During that span, Wagner has averaged 24.7/2.7/4.3 on 54.9% shooting, while leading the team in minutes per game.

Sacramento Kings (-5.5)

There are many ways to get exposure to one of the most enticing offenses of the NBA slate. At the top of the pricing grid, both Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox continue to perform at an All-Star level no matter what their individual matchups are. Moreover, Kevin Huerter has scored in double digits in five straight contests. Meanwhile, with Paolo Banchero switching onto Domantas Sabonis tonight, Keegan Murray has a friendly matchup versus Wendell Carter Jr., who sports a 114.3 defensive rating on the season. Of the four listed targets, Sabonis and Fox are in their own category. However, Huerter and Murray both have upside in an elite game environment, despite being reliant on their scoring output.

Honorable Mentions:

Milwaukee Bucks @ New York Knicks (+2.5)
Chicago Bulls @ Boston Celtics (-8.5)
San Antonio Spurs @ Memphis Grizzlies (-11.5)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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NBA DFS: Ghost’s Gems 01/05

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

Star-studded matchups and teams on the tail end of back-to-backs headline tonight’s action in the NBA. It’s a Thirsty Thursday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

Memphis Grizzlies @ Orlando Magic (+6.5)

Memphis Grizzlies (-6.5)

Both of these teams are on the second half of a back-to-back so things will get interesting on the defensive side of the ball. Steven Adams has been dominant on the glass as of late and gets a friendly matchup on both sides of the court. He has three double-doubles in his last four games, averaging 11/19/2.8 on 52.8% shooting. Moreover, the backcourt of Ja Morant and Desmond Bane will be able to work this offense in comfortable fashion, with the latter having a ton of upside on this small NBA slate.

Orlando Magic (+6.5)

The Magic rotations returns to full strength with everyone having served their suspensions. While Bol Bol missed last night’s game as expected, he is a strong candidate to sit once again tonight. Additionally, there are potential rest candidates in Wendell Carter Jr. and Jalen Suggs. There is intrigue to be had despite the tough matchup versus a Grizzlies defense that ranks second in the NBA. Look for updates in Discord once the final injury report comes through.

Utah Jazz @ Houston Rockets (+5.5)

Utah Jazz (-5.5)

This is the best game environment on the NBA slate. Utah comes into tonight having lost a heartbreaker to Sacramento and five straight games, but their offense has been tremendous, averaging 121 points over their last three. Malik Beasley was at the forefront of Tuesday’s article and he came through with 16/6/2 in 30 minutes of play for 33 fantasy points. He is once again in a great spot tonight with Collin Sexton out, as is the trio of Markkenen, Clarkson, and Conley.

Houston Rockets (+5.5)

On the second half of a back-to-back, Eric Gordon is a potential rest candidate for the Rockets. Should he miss this game, the bench gets awfully thin after Tari Eason. It won’t be the first time he’s mentioned and certainly won’t be the last: this is a tremendous spot for Alperen Sengun. On the season, the sophomore is averaging 14.3/8.5/2.6 on 55.1% shooting. With the Jazz ranked 29th in the NBA against centers, Sengun is set to dominate the paint on both ends of the floor.

Honorable Mentions:

Boston Celtics @ Dallas Mavericks (+2.5)
Los Angeles Clippers @ Denver Nuggets (-6.5)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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NBA DFS: Ghost’s Gems 01/04

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

Despite there being plenty of games on the NBA schedule tonight, a few spots stand above the rest. Many teams are dealing with a multitude of injuries to begin the new year, while one of the opening games features two of the slimmest rotations of the slate. It’s a Wet Wednesday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

Oklahoma City Thunder @ Orlando Magic (-2.5)

Oklahoma City Thunder (+2.5)

On the second half of a back-to-back, the Thunder will be an interesting rotation tonight. Last night saw a surprising blowout victory versus Boston, despite missing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. On tonight’s NBA slate, both of these teams will be popular should the Thunder star miss a second straight contest. In his absence, look for a backcourt of Josh Giddey and Tre Mann to shoulder the load on offense, while both Lu Dort and Jalen Williams get a friendly matchup versus a Magic defense that ranks 25th in the NBA versus wings. If SGA makes his return, look for updates in Discord.

Orlando Magic (-2.5)

The Magic will be awfully thin tonight. They have the second bulk of players serving their suspensions from a previous incident versus the Pistons, while others have been added to the injury report. Franz Wagner, Mo Wagner, Kevon Harris, and Admiral Schofield will all be serving their one-game suspensions tonight. Moreover, Bol Bol was recently placed in health and safety protocols, while Jalen Suggs figures to be on a strict minutes limit after missing the previous 17 games. Barring a minutes restriction, this is a phenomenal matchup for Wendell Carter Jr., who faces a Thunder interior defense that ranks 29th in the NBA versus small-ball centers and ranks 25th in points allowed in the paint per game. If Carter Jr. remains limited and Bol Bol is ultimately ruled out, Mo Bamba is a must-play.

Houston Rockets @ New Orleans Pelicans (-7.5)

Houston Rockets (+7.5)

In one of the best game environments of the NBA slate, exposure to both sides of this game is imperative. With key injuries to the Pelicans’ frontcourt, Alperen Sengun will be needed to match the size of Jonas Valanciunas, Jaxson Hayes, and Guillermo Hernangomez. Sporting a 22.3% usage rate on the season, Sengun leads the Rockets with a 1.18 fantasy points per minute. Moreover, Jalen Green has immense upside in a high-scoring affair. Over his seven games, Green has scored 20 or more points in six appearances. Moreover, he has averaged 22.1/5.4/3 on 43.5% shooting during that stretch while attempting eight three-pointers per contest.

New Orleans Pelicans (-7.5)

The Pelicans will be severely shorthanded tonight. Not only is Brandon Ingram still recovering from a toe injury, but Zion Williamson now joins him on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. Thus, CJ McCollum will be tasked with shouldering the offense. On the season, McCollum currently sports a 26.1% usage rate and 1.09 fantasy points per minute. However, with both Ingram and Williamson off the court, McCollum sees drastic increases to a 31.5% usage rate and a team-leading 1.24 fantasy points per minute. Moreover, Houston currently ranks last in the NBA versus primary ball handlers. Look for McCollum to score with ease and see a notable uptick in assist opportunity with Valanciunas, Hayes, and Hernangomez being the benefactors in the pick-and-roll.

Atlanta Hawks @ Sacramento Kings (-1.5)

Atlanta Hawks (+1.5)

In the best game environment of the NBA slate, there is plenty of intrigue across the pricing grid. Trae Young offers the most upside in this matchup, leading the team with a 33.5% usage rate. However, both Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic are enticing as well. With a troubling frontcourt of Onyeka Okongwu and John Collins facing Domantas Sabonis in the paint, the Hawks will look to roll out a smaller lineup and push the pace. In 14 games this season, Bogdanovic has come off the bench in 11 appearances. Moreover, he is one of the league’s best off the bench, averaging 17.4/3.2/2.5 in over 30 minutes per contest. Meanwhile, Dejounte Murray will be tasked with guarding De’Aaron Fox on the other side of the ball and logging heavy minutes in a fast matchup versus a Kings team that ranks fourth in the league in pace.

Sacramento Kings (-1.5)

While the duo of Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox is at the forefront of a fantasy goldmine, there is another spot to target as well. Facing his former team, Kevin Huerter will get plenty of shooting opportunities tonight. As a result of Murray guarding Fox, Huerter gets a phenomenal matchup versus a poor defender in Trae Young. Atlanta ranks 26th in the NBA versus off-ball guards and have struggled mightily to shift to the corners. With Domantas Sabonis’ elite playmaking on the inside, he has triple-double upside in this matchup, but he won’t get there without Huerter being the benefactor of open three-point attempts.

Honorable Mentions:

San Antonio Spurs @ New York Knicks (-9.5)
Detroit Pistons @ Golden State Warriors (-6.5)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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NBA DFS: Ghost’s Gems 12/19

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

As we approach the holiday period, many players will be sitting out games. It is common for NBA teams to make sure their key contributors are rested heading into the new year. Thus, new rotations will be key in elite game environments. It’s a Mojito Monday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

Orlando Magic @ Atlanta Hawks (-6.5)

Orlando Magic (+6.5)

Despite numerous injuries, the Magic have reeled off six straight wins. No Orlando player has been as impressive as the #1 overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft, Paolo Banchero. Over his last seven games, Banchero has scored 20 or more points in each one. Moreover, he has averaged 22.4/7.4/4.6 on 41.3% shooting. During that same stretch, he has also led the team in both usage rate and minutes played per game. With the Hawks currently ranked 26th in the league against power forwards and 27th in points allowed in the paint, Banchero has massive upside in this matchup.

Atlanta Hawks (-6.5)

Exposure to the Hawks offense remains to be seen, depending on their final injury report. After missing multiple weeks, both John Collins (ankle) and Dejounte Murray (ankle) are questionable to make their returns to the lineup. Should both miss this game, there are options all over the pricing grid. At the top, Trae Young gets a friendly matchup versus a Magic defense that ranks 24th in the NBA in defensive rating, while also ranking 20th against primary ball handlers. Moreover, the duo of Bogdan Bogdanovic and Onyeka Okongwu figure to be popular options if both Collins and Murray miss another game. Over his last four games, Bogdanovic has averaged 26/5.8/2.8 on 54.4% shooting, including 54.8% from deep on over ten attempts per night. On the other hand, Okongwu will continue to fill in at the ‘5’ for Clint Capela, who remains out.

Portland Trail Blazers @ Oklahoma City Thunder (OTB)

Portland Trail Blazers (OTB)

While most will avoid the Blazers tonight versus a shorthanded Thunder roster, it’s the wrong approach. There is certainly a possibility that this game gets out of hand given the injuries to OKC’s two best players. However, they just pulled off a victory against the Grizzlies with this same rotation. Even with Morant getting tossed after 16 minutes of that game, it’s an impressive victory nonetheless. If you want to play Lillard at the top of the pricing grid tonight, I won’t talk you off of it. But with Lu Dort lining up on him, Simons and Nurkic are in better spots. The Thunder rank 27th in the NBA against true centers, while struggling versus off-ball guards as well. This rotation is risky but makes for an intriguing tournament play.

Oklahoma City Thunder (OTB)

This rotation will be one of, if not the most popular one on the entire NBA slate. Both Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey have been ruled out for a second straight game. Thus, there are plenty of viable options. Of the players of interest, pick your poison with any combination of Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe, Aaron Wiggins, and/or Aleksej Pokusevski. The four not only figure to play the bulk of minutes, but are in one of the best game environments on the slate.

Charlotte Hornets @ Sacramento Kings (-8.5)

Charlotte Hornets (+8.5)

Since making his return to the lineup, LaMelo Ball has looked great. Despite the concerns around his efficiency, he has still shot 50% from the field in his two games played since returning. During that span, Ball has logged 33 and 34 minutes, leaving no concern for any restrictions. Moreover, he has averaged 25/1.5/7 on 50% shooting, including 46.2% from deep on a whopping 13 attempts per night. With the Kings ranked 6th in the NBA in pace, this game environment is meant for Ball.

Sacramento Kings (-8.5)

Despite a lofty spread on this game, the Kings offense is in the best spot on the NBA slate. The Hornets currently rank 13th in pace, while being 27th in defensive rating. As expected, the main contributors of interest are De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. However, the latter figures to be one of, if not my favorite play of the slate at the top of the pricing grid. In his last six games, Sabonis has scored 20 or more points in five appearances. Moreover, he has averaged 21.2/14.2/6 on 71.2% shooting during that stretch. The Hornets have always been a frontcourt to pick on, and they currently rank last in the league against centers, allowing over 60 fantasy points per game to the position.

Honorable Mentions:

Milwaukee Bucks @ New Orleans Pelicans (OTB)
San Antonio Spurs @ Houston Rockets (-3.5)
Los Angeles Lakers @ Phoenix Suns (OTB)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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NBA DFS: Ghost’s Gems 11/30

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

Elite game environments and head-to-head matchups amongst some of the league’s best headlines tonight’s NBA slate. Some teams are playing on short rotations, while others scramble to find new rotations to avoid falling in the standings. It’s a Wet Wednesday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

There have already been multiple players ruled out ahead of tonight’s slate with more to come. Thus, 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.

Atlanta Hawks @ Orlando Magic (+5.5)

Atlanta Hawks (-5.5)

If you think Orlando can keep this game relatively close, than Trae Young is someone to monitor at the top of the pricing grid. The Magic currently rank 25th in the NBA versus primary ball handlers and have poor perimeter defenders. Before failing to miss the 20-point mark in his last game, Young has scored 20 or more in eleven straight. Moreover, he leads the team in usage rate, scoring, assists, and field goal attempts per game. It’s a hefty price to pay and by no means necessary, but the ceiling is there in an elite game environment.

Orlando Magic (+5.5)

Many players in this rotation are out, while a few make their return after long absences. Wendell Carter Jr., Jalen Suggs, and Chuma Okeke are all out, while Mo Bamba is questionable. Meanwhile, Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony will be on minutes limits in their first action in quite some time. The key player to monitor here is Mo Bamba. Should he be ruled out, Bol Bol shifts to the power forward spot in a phenomenal matchup against John Collins. His scoring output has been inconsistent, but with 10 or more points in three of his last five games, he makes for an intriguing tournament play given all the injuries to this roster.

San Antonio Spurs @ OKC Thunder (-5.5)

San Antonio Spurs (+5.5)

One of the best spots for value on the entire NBA slate. Both Jakob Poeltl and Jeremy Sochan have been ruled out for this game, leaving plenty of opportunity in the frontcourt. Additionally, Keita Bates-Diop is listed as questionable, as is Josh Richardson. Should the two miss this game as well, plenty of minutes will be there for Zach Collins, Charles Bassey, and Doug McDermott. Since returning to the lineup, Collins has posted an 8/7.5/1 scoring line on 50% shooting, while McDermott has averaged 15 points per game in those two games.

OKC Thunder (-5.5)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (ankle) is currently questionable to play. Should he miss this game, Josh Giddey will be one of the most popular plays on the NBA slate and rightfully so. The Spurs currently rank 27th against combo guards. Moreover, Giddey has tremendous upside on the glass with the Spurs frontcourt missing two of the best rebounders. The only interest I have in this offense is if Gilgeous-Alexander misses this game, so keep an eye on the final injury report.

Toronto Raptors @ New Orleans Pelicans (-2.5)

Toronto Raptors (+2.5)

With Pascal Siakam making his return to the lineup, do not feel forced to get exposure to this offense. However, if there is a spot for OG Anunoby to make his mark, it’s in this matchup. The Pelicans currently rank 29th in the NBA versus wings. Moreover, Anunoby has scored 20 or more points in four of his last five games, posting a 24/5.6/3.2 scoring line on 50% shooting. The usage rate will always fall behind Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam, but Anunoby has the best matchup of the three.

New Orleans Pelicans (-2.5)

With Brandon Ingram (toe) ruled out for a second straight game, the value is there once again with the Pelicans on this NBA slate. CJ McCollum (health and safety protocols) has been cleared to play, but his conditioning may not be there after missing three games. Thus, it looks as though Zion Williamson is set to lead the offense once again. Moreover, the backcourt will pick up the slack in the absence of Ingram and potentially McCollum. Jose Alvarado is set to see heavy minutes in this one once again, while Dyson Daniels makes for an intriguing option off the bench should McClollum sit out.

Honorable Mentions:

Indiana Pacers @ Sacramento Kings (-4.5)
Portland Trail Blazers @ Los Angeles Lakers (-5.5)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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NBA DFS: Ghost’s Gems 11/07

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

Numerous teams take the floor tonight with concerns to be addressed. Injuries are plentiful to begin the NBA season, shifting slates at the blink of an eye. Tonight, some back-to-backs are at the forefront of the player pool, while two elite game environments make for excellent pivots in tournaments. It’s a Mojito Monday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

On a large NBA slate, injury report updates are likely to be lengthly and frequent throughout the day. Thus, 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.

Houston Rockets @ Orlando Magic (-4.5)

Houston Rockets (+4.5)

The rebuilding Rockets continue to be a bargain on NBA slates. Despite the offense running through their backcourt tandem, my priority here is Alperen Sengun. Averaging over 1.3 DK points per minute, Sengun is amongst the most productive players on a per minute basis. Facing an Orlando Magic frontcourt that allows nearly 50 points in the paint per game, Sengun is far and away one of the best targets in the mid range of the pricing grid.

Orlando Magic (-4.5)

With Markelle Fultz, Cole Anthony, Gary Harris, Jonathan Isaac and Mo Wagner all on the shelf, this is one of the thinnest rotations in the NBA. Impressive is his rookie campaign thus far, Paolo Banchero leads his team with a 29.6% usage rate while posting a 22.9/8.5/3.6 scoring line on 45.8% shooting. However, his point/dollar upside is limited on such a large slate. Thus, I’ll be turning to the wings once again in Franz Wagner and/or Bol Bol. The two carry usage rates of 24.2% and 15.4% in the last five games, respectively. In that stretch, since Bol Bol has entered the starting lineup, the two have combined for 32.2 points per game. Against a Rockets team that ranks 28th in the league versus wings, the two have phenomenal matchups in an elite game environment.

Washington Wizards @ Charlotte Hornets (-3)

Washington Wizards (+3)

With the Wizards on the second half of a back-to-back, their injury report can dictate the NBA slate. Already without Bradley Beal, who is in healthy and safety protocols, the Wizards offense have one of, if not the best situation on the slate. Now, with Beal likely out for a second straight game, usage gets more condensed and there are two primary benefactors. The duo of Kristaps Porzingis and Kyle Kuzma are both in advantageous situations in their respective matchups. The former lines up on Mason Plumlee, who carries a defensive rating of 110.4, while the Hornets frontcourt collectively ranks 29th in the league versus opposing big men. Meanwhile, the latter has a favorable matchup of his own; Kelly Oubre Jr. shifts to the ‘3’ with Terry Rozier back in the lineup, while having a defensive rating of 111.2 on the season.

Charlotte Hornets (-3)

Making his return to the lineup last game after a lengthly absence, Terry Rozier picked up right where he left off. Despite the losing effort against Brooklyn, Rozier led the team in usage, minutes played, scoring, and field goal attempts. Taking 24 shots on the night, Rozier took a whopping 14 from behind the arc, shooting 37.5% from the field and 42.9% from deep. With the Wizards ranking last in the NBA in opponent three-point field goal percentage allowed, Rozier will have the green light to take as many shots as it takes to get the win and makes for an excellent pivot to a guard mentioned below.

Toronto Raptors @ Chicago Bulls (-3.5)

Toronto Raptors (+3.5)

The reason the two games above highlighted targets in the mid range of the player pool is because the field will flock in this direction. With Pascal Siakam (groin) is slated to miss the next two weeks, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, and Scottie Barnes will be popular on every NBA slate featuring the Raptors. Tonight, Toronto takes on Chicago on the second half of a back-to-back, where the trio will be tasked with heavy minutes once again. There is simply no need for an explanation as to why all three are in play, but they will be some of the most rostered players in the field. Moreover, Coach Nick Nurse refuses to go deep into his rotation, whether it’s a regular season game in November or Game 7 of the NBA Finals. Thus, add Christian Koloko to the players whom will garner the interest of the field.

Chicago Bulls (-3.5)

With Zach Lavine (knee) missing last night’s game, his status for tonight will dictate interest in the Bulls roster. Truth be told, while both Nikola Vucevic and DeMar DeRozan will see increased looks on offense should Lavine sit once again, I don’t think I’ll get there on such a large NBA slate. Thus, should Lavine miss a second straight game, I’ll turn to the Chicago rotation pieces in Caruso, Green, Williams, and Dragic. Again, this is only if not only Lavine is out, but Coby White (quad) as well. Check Discord for updates.

Honorable Mentions:

Sacramento Kings @ Golden State Warriors (-7.5)
LA Lakers @ Utah Jazz (-3)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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NBA DFS: Ghost’s Gems 11/03

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

Tonight makes for an interesting NBA slate. With only four teams in action, the majority of the field will want to go a similar direction. Multiple elite talents, young stars in the making, and two mismatches on paper will have this be our craziest slate of the season thus far. It’s a Thirsty Thursday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

With only two games on the schedule tonight, a single injury or lineup change can shift the NBA slate drastically. Thus, 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.

Golden State Warriors @ Orlando Magic (+8)

Golden State Warriors (-8)

Rather than diving into individual statistics, I’ll be discussing different strategies surrounding all four teams on this NBA slate. Beginning with the Warriors, it’s simple: are you playing Steph Curry or not? You certainly cannot go wrong here with the reigning Finals MVP, as he is clearly producing in all facets of the game. However, should you fade him, you’ll need exposure to this offense in the form of Andrew Wiggins, Klay Thompson, or Jordan Poole. Wiggins posted 20+ points for the first time in his last five games the other night, while Poole has been inconsistent with the number of looks he gets. Meanwhile, Thompson has logged 30 or more minutes in back-to-back appearances, attempting 19 three-pointers along the way. Obviously, Curry is the clear top dog here for me, followed by Poole, Thompson, and Wiggins, in that order.

Orlando Magic (+8)

The Magic will dictate this NBA slate. Given the numerous options they provide us in the mid range, there are a few possibilities to entertain. The first is with Wendell Carter Jr. The reason I mention him first is because he is the logical pivot to Nikola Jokic at the center position. By no means is he expected to match his counterpart’s output, but WCJ offers more flexibility with your build. Second, the duo of Franz Wagner and Bol Bol. While the latter has been a focal point in previous articles and remains to be rostered at a much lower rate than he should, this is a matchup where he could find himself lagging behind in transition. While I’ll still entertain the possibility of playing Bol, I’ll be taking a long look at Wagner, who has assumed the responsibility of being one of the primary ball handlers with Cole Anthony and Markelle Fultz sidelined. Paolo Banchero is the odd man out for me here, but I won’t fault you for prioritizing him given his safe floor.

Denver Nuggets @ OKC Thunder (+6)

Denver Nuggets (-6)

With Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray back in the lineup, I’m taking a stance on fading Nikola Jokic tonight. While the back-to-back NBA MVP can surely lead any slate in scoring, he caps the upside of your lineup structure. Thus, I’ll be turning to the two secondary options on offense. MPJ has scored 15 or more points in every game this season, making his way back to form. Meanwhile, Murray can be an x-factor on this slate. The former Kentucky Wildcat logged 30 minutes for the first time this season in his last game and took a season-high 21 shots. With the Thunder on a thin rotation, this can be a primary spot for the two to continue to get shots up in a winnable game, without Jokic having to carry them on offense.

OKC Thunder (+6)

If you’re not playing Curry tonight, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the stud you want. While he is likely to be the least popular option of the three options at the top of the pricing grid, SGA offers just as much upside as anyone right now. Additionally, the field will flock to the value on the OKC side of things, leaving SGA as the odd man out. The frontcourt of Robinson-Earl, Pokusevski, Jalen Williams, and Bazley all figure to be in consideration. Be sure to check our projections to see where they rank leading up to lock.

NBA DFS stud rankings based on lineup structure:

Steph Curry
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Nikola Jokic

NBA DFS scenarios based on lineup structure:

If fading Jokic, look to Murray and/or Porter Jr.
If fading Curry, look to the trio of Poole, Thompson, Wiggins
Orlando mid range targets listed above
OKC value options

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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NBA DFS: Ghost’s Gems 11/01

DFSGhost 2 years ago

written by DFSGhost

While most of the teams in action tonight have gotten off to slow starts, many are still contenders for an NBA championship. Only a handful of games into the season, there is no reason to panic for most, but these teams need to get it going on both ends on the court sooner rather than later. Competitive game environments, plenty of stars, and interconference battles headline tonight’s matchups. It’s a Taco Tuesday edition of the Gems – let’s ride.

With smaller NBA slates comes a greater challenge. As much as we want to play many of the elite players, value is needed to do so. However, thanks to the plethora of injury news in the early stages of the season, it will likely be possible as we get closer to lock. 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.

Chicago Bulls @ Brooklyn Nets (-1.5)

Chicago Bulls (+1.5)

With Andre Drummond (shoulder) being ruled out for tonight’s game, in addition to both Ayo Dosunmu (chest) and Coby White (quad) being listed as questionable, the Bulls rotation is getting thin. Thus, there is plenty of mid range value to be had with DeMar DeRozan, Zach Lavine, and Nikola Vucevic. My attention will turn to Vucevic in this matchup. Not only does he have a massive advantage on the inside, but his backup center is out for this game. Vucevic has a modest 23.5% usage rate on the season, but has posted three double-doubles in seven games thus far. In those matchups, Vucevic has averaged a whopping 19.67 rebounds. With Brooklyn sitting last in the NBA in rebounding, including an abysmal 63.7% defensive rebounding rate, Vuc will dominate the paint on both ends of the floor.

Brooklyn Nets (-1.5)

Truthfully, I’m not forcing any Brooklyn exposure into my NBA lineups until we see their final injury report. Having sat out the frontend of a back-to-back last night, Ben Simmons makes his return to the lineup tonight. Moreover, we may see one of Kyrie Irving or Kevin Durant potentially rest in this one. With other studs in the next game being a bigger priority if both Nets stars play, this is a wait-and-see situation.

Orlando Magic @ OKC Thunder (-4)

Orlando Magic (+4)

Should Jalen Suggs (ankle) be ruled out for a sixth consecutive contest to open the NBA season, the Magic will be once again operating their offense without a true point guard. It’s been a fun lineup to watch, as the quartet of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Bol Bol, and Wendell Carter Jr. are all over 6’10”. Their length and size advantage is notable, especially on the wings. Thus, while Banchero will continue to be the primary option on offense, I’ll keep riding with Bol Bol and/or Wendell Carter Jr.

The former has started two games for the Magic, logging 28.5 minutes per contest and posting a 13.5/9 scoring line. The latter draws a favorable matchup in the paint on both ends of the floor. OKC ranks last in the NBA to opposing big men, including being 23rd in points allowed in the paint, where WCJ draws nearly six paint touches per night.

OKC Thunder (-4)

All – and I mean all – of my NBA lineups tonight will start with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. On a small slate, we need to plant our flag somewhere, and I’m riding with my fellow Canadian tonight. With Josh Giddey (ankle) ruled out for a fourth consecutive game, it’s all SGA on offense tonight. Despite missing the Robin to their Batman, OKC has won their last three games without Giddey, including victories over Dallas and back-to-back against the Clippers. In these last three, SGA paces his squad with a 33.3% usage rate, posting a 31.7/5.3/7.7 scoring line on 50% shooting.

Honorable Mentions:

Golden State Warriors @ Miami Heat (-1)
Minnesota Timberwolves @ Phoenix Suns (-5)

You can find me on Twitter @BetsByGhost and in the Win Daily Discord

2 years ago 0 comments

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