NBA DFS Picks, Projections, Lineups, Injuries & More Today: Wednesday Playbook Wednesday, March 18th, features an eight-game NBA DFS main slate on DraftKings and nine games on FanDuel. The slate includes four teams playing the second legs of back-to-back games, raising questions about potential player rests. Star players like Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Johnson, and Josh Giddey are available for action. For newcomers to NBA DFS, the article serves as an introduction, offering tips on identifying key factors to consider each night. The focus shifts to player-specific analysis, including injury updates, matchups, and projected performance metrics. Key players to watch include Josh Giddey, who has consistently posted 60+ DKP in four straight games and 50+ in six of his last seven, with four triple-doubles in his last five contests. His efficiency of 1.37 FP/min makes him a strong contender. D'Angelo Russell’s matchup against the Pelicans, with a 32.1% USG and 1.3 FP/min average, is highlighted as a favorable opportunity. Other notable mentions include Donovan Mitchell, who has a 24.4% USG or higher in three of four games since returning from injury and has posted 25+ DKP in three of four contests. Brandon Ingram’s 27.9% USG and 1.07 FP/min average are emphasized, particularly in an elite matchup against the Bulls. The article also details matchups for players like Tyrese Maxey, who leads his team in USG (29.4%) and FP/min (1.36 FP/min), and Jalen Brunson, whose performance in a high-scoring environment against the Mavs is noted. Players such as Scottie Barnes and Klay Thompson are analyzed for their potential impact, with Barnes’ 30.7% USG and 1.3 FP/min average and Thompson’s 31.2% USG and 1.3 FP/min standing out.#shai_gilgeous_alexander #nikola_jokic #jalen_johnson #josh_giddey #nba_dfs
Fantasy basketball picks, DFS and betting tips for Wednesday's NBA games ESPN’s fantasy basketball daily cheat sheet provides pregame insights for setting lineups ahead of Wednesday’s NBA slate. The guide highlights key players to target, injury updates, and betting angles, even in games projected as blowouts. Last night’s late games, including Philadelphia 76ers vs. Denver Nuggets and San Antonio Spurs vs. Sacramento Kings, were expected to be one-sided, but reserve and young players on those teams offered value. Identified players like Keldon Johnson, Nique Clifford, Maxime Raynaud, Dylan Harper, Carter Bryant, and Justin Edwards showed potential for outperforming their averages, with some delivering strong fantasy starts or successful parlay bets despite the games’ decisive margins. The NBA’s nine games on Wednesday include five with double-digit scoring margins and four with single-digit spreads. While blowouts may seem less appealing, savvy managers can still find value by focusing on players in underperforming roles or teams with depth. For example, the Utah Jazz’s Brice Sensabaugh has emerged as a key scorer with their main options sidelined, averaging 25.8 points in four games since Lauri Markkanen’s absence. Similarly, Golden State Warriors’ Gui Santos has posted 18.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in six straight games, making him a reliable streamer. Dallas Mavericks’ P.J. Washington, returning from an ankle injury, has averaged 16.7 points and 9.3 rebounds in his last three games, while Memphis Grizzlies’ Javon Small, who could play all remaining games, has averaged 18.3 points and 5.5 assists in his last four contests. Betting opportunities include Jalen Johnson’s OVER 41.5 total points, assists, and rebounds at -120 odds, as he has averaged a triple-double of 26.0 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 9.#nba #espn #kyle_filipowski #jalen_johnson #josh_giddey
Stats Rundown: 3 Numbers from the Mavericks Loss to the Hawks The Dallas Mavericks suffered another heavy defeat, falling to the Atlanta Hawks 135-120 in a Wednesday night matchup in Dallas. The Hawks’ CJ McCollum dominated with 24 points, while Jalen Johnson nearly recorded a triple-double with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists. Dallas’ Daniel Gafford led the team in scoring with 23 points. The game lacked defensive intensity, continuing a troubling trend for the Mavericks as they approach another season of struggles. The Hawks’ ability to score in the paint was alarming, as they tallied 72 points inside the arc. This followed Dallas’ earlier giveaway of 68 paint points to the Pelicans on Monday, highlighting a recurring issue. The Mavericks’ small-ball lineup, which started again, proved ineffective from the outset. PJ Washington, a rim protector for a wing, struggled as the sole backline defender, and the presence of 5-foot-11 Ryan Nembhard further weakened the defensive effort. The team’s lack of reliable defenders compounded their challenges, with little hope of turning things around. Cooper Flagg contributed minimally offensively but made an impact defensively, recording two steals and two blocks. While the Mavericks’ defensive struggles were evident, Flagg’s efforts provided a few moments of disruption. However, the team’s overall lack of defensive presence overshadowed any positive contributions. The Mavericks’ offensive woes were also apparent, as Flagg, PJ Washington, and Naji Marshall combined for just 2-of-10 shooting from beyond the arc. Washington managed 2-of-6, but Flagg and Marshall were a combined 0-for-4. The team’s reliance on small-ball tactics to boost an anemic offense has not resolved their shooting issues.#dallas_mavericks #atlanta_hawks #jalen_johnson #cj_mccollum #daniel_gafford
Atlanta Hawks' 10-Game Winning Streak Highlights Dyson Daniels' Unsung Heroics The Atlanta Hawks have dominated the NBA over the past eight games, securing victories in each contest and showcasing a level of consistency that has shifted the narrative around the team from "promising" to "legitimate contender." During this streak, the Hawks have outscored opponents by double digits in nine games and exceeded 115 points in the same number of contests. This sustained performance has positioned the franchise as a serious playoff threat, with key players like Jonathan Kuminga, Onyeka Okungwu, and Corey Kispert receiving much of the spotlight. However, team leader Jalen Johnson has pointed to Dyson Daniels as the unsung hero behind the success. While Trae Young’s absence has increased Daniels’ role as a primary ball-handler, the 23-year-old has thrived under the pressure. He recently became the first player in NBA history to record at least 80 points, 50 rebounds, and 50 assists in a seven-game stretch while committing five or fewer turnovers. This achievement underscores the completeness of his game and answers lingering questions about his offensive potential. For Johnson, Daniels’ contributions extend beyond the box score. His ability to set screens, make timely passes, and defend effectively has made life easier for teammates, even if his efforts don’t always translate to flashy stats. Johnson emphasized that Daniels’ value lies in his versatility and work ethic. "Dyson has been huge for us," Johnson said. "Not just over this winning streak, but the whole year. He brings pretty much every aspect to the game, and he’s somebody who’s always willing to get better and learn. It’s a testament to his work, and obviously, we need him to keep being big for us.#atlanta_hawks #trae_young #jalen_johnson #eastern_confederation #dyson_daniels
Hawks’ CJ McCollum Addresses Being a Starter with Confident Response The Atlanta Hawks have been on a nine-game winning streak, and their recent success has been closely tied to CJ McCollum’s transition to the starting lineup. The team’s surge began when McCollum replaced Zaccharie Risacher in the starting five, and the results have been consistent. Stats show the Hawks perform better with McCollum in the lineup alongside Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Jalen Johnson, and Onyeka Okongwu. This dynamic has continued to deliver strong results, and McCollum has not indicated any plans to return to the bench. After a win against the Milwaukee Bucks, McCollum was asked about his preference for starting over coming off the bench. He responded by emphasizing the team’s needs over personal role preferences. “For me, it’s whatever the team needs,” McCollum said. “I think the money is on time every two weeks, regardless. That’s always helpful, but historically, I’ve been a starter. However, I’m comfortable playing whatever role is necessary for us, as long as we’re competing for something. That’s what’s really important for me: playing winning basketball and competing for something right now. That’s what they want me to do, and when your boss tells you something, you’ve got to do it.” McCollum’s inclusion in the starting lineup hasn’t disrupted the team’s rhythm; instead, it has enhanced their performance. Jalen Johnson, who has thrived in the lineup, highlighted McCollum’s value as a veteran presence. “Some lineups may look different, but CJ’s been a great vet to come in, and he understands the game at an elite level,” Johnson said. “So having him on the court with us, he just shows us little pointers and stuff where we can be effective at, and I feel like he’s done a great job leading our group.#atlanta_hawks #jalen_johnson #cj_mccollum #zaccharie_risacher #dyson_daniels
Jonathan Kuminga's Role with the Hawks Remains Limited Jonathan Kuminga, the former seventh overall draft pick, has struggled to secure a significant role with the Atlanta Hawks despite his trade from the Golden State Warriors. Since joining the team in late January, Kuminga has appeared in just four games, and his limited playing time has raised questions about his future with the franchise. Head coach Quin Synder has prioritized a starting lineup that has thrived without Kuminga, leaving the 23-year-old sidelined due to ongoing knee injuries. Kuminga’s situation mirrors challenges he faced during his time with the Warriors, where he often battled for minutes amid a roster built around veteran stars. The Hawks, however, have found success in spite of his absence, winning nine consecutive games and positioning themselves as a contender for a top-six seed in the Eastern Conference. The team’s current starting lineup—comprising Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Nickeil-Alexander Walker, Onyeka Okongwu, and McCollum—has demonstrated exceptional efficiency, outscoring opponents by 26.8 points per 100 possessions in their limited minutes together. This performance has solidified Synder’s confidence in the group, even as Kuminga’s return looms. Kuminga’s injury concerns have persisted since his last game with the Warriors on January 22, when he sustained a left knee issue. He has only played once in the past five games, logging less than 20 minutes in his most recent appearance against the Washington Wizards. Despite an explosive start with the Hawks, his production has dipped in recent outings, with just two points scored in his last game.#atlanta_hawks #jalen_johnson #jonathan_kuminga #golden_state_warriors #quin_synder
Final Injury Report for Magic-Hawks: Key Players Likely Out for Monday’s Game The Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic prepare for their Monday night matchup, with both teams facing potential absences from key players due to injuries. The Hawks, coming off a nine-game winning streak, aim to extend their dominance in the Eastern Conference, while the Magic seek to continue their seven-game winning streak. However, injury concerns could impact the outcome of the game. The Hawks enter the contest with a 36-31 record after defeating the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday. Jalen Johnson led the team with a triple-double performance, scoring 23 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out 12 assists. C.J. McCollum added 30 points to the effort. Despite their strong form, the Hawks have one injury concern: forward Jonathan Kuminga. Listed as questionable due to left knee injury management, Kuminga risks missing his second consecutive game. If sidelined, players like Zaccharie Risacher, Mouhamed Gueye, and Corey Kispert could see increased playing time. The Magic, with a 38-28 record, also face challenges on the injury front. Forward Franz Wagner is ruled out for the game due to a left ankle injury that has kept him sidelined since February 19. There is no set return date for Wagner, and his absence will likely shift the offensive load to Tristan da Silva and Noah Penda. Guard Anthony Black is also out after missing his fifth straight game due to an abdominal strain. Center Jonathan Isaac remains sidelined with a left knee sprain, while forward Jett Howard is listed as questionable due to an illness. Both teams will need to adjust their strategies as they navigate the absence of key contributors.#orlando_magic #atlanta_hawks #franz_wagner #jalen_johnson #tristan_da_silva
New Giannis Trade Rumors Highlight Hawks' Reluctance to Move Jalen Johnson The Atlanta Hawks have reportedly shown little interest in trading their rising star Jalen Johnson as part of a potential deal for Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to recent reports. Jake Fischer of The Stein Line noted that the Hawks have consistently viewed the idea of sending Johnson as part of a trade package for the Bucks’ star forward as a “non-starter.” This stance reflects the team’s belief in Johnson’s long-term value and their unwillingness to part with him despite the potential benefits of acquiring Giannis. The Hawks’ reluctance is further underscored by their status as a “natural” trade partner for Giannis, given their ownership of the Bucks’ 2026 and 2027 first-round draft picks, contingent on specific conditions being met. While Milwaukee would likely see the return of those picks and the development of Johnson as a significant asset, the Hawks’ position remains firm. Johnson, a 24-year-old former Duke standout, has become a cornerstone of Atlanta’s roster since being selected 20th overall in the 2021 NBA draft. Johnson’s growth has been remarkable, particularly after limited playing time in his first two NBA seasons. By the 2023-24 season, he emerged as a key contributor, averaging 16.0 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. This trajectory continued into the current season, where he is posting career highs with 22.9 points, 10.4 rebounds, 8.0 assists, and 1.6 three-pointers per game across 59 appearances. His efficiency is also notable, with a 49.5% field goal shooting rate and 35.1% three-point accuracy, making him Atlanta’s most impactful player. Johnson’s development has been so impressive that the Hawks were willing to trade former franchise cornerstone Trae Young to the Washington Wizards in a separate deal.#duke #giannis_antetokounmpo #atlanta_hawks #jalen_johnson #the_stein_line
Atlanta Hawks Rumors Highlight Jalen Johnson's MVP Potential The Atlanta Hawks have entered a new phase of their season, riding a nine-game winning streak and showing signs of becoming a competitive force in the Eastern Conference. Despite losing their star player, Trae Young, in a blockbuster trade earlier in the year, the team has adapted with a rebuilt roster centered around Jalen Johnson. Since the trade deadline on February 5, the Hawks have posted a net rating of +7.4, ranking sixth in the league, with a strong defensive rating of 109.2. Their improved performance has been fueled by better team cohesion, strategic adjustments, and a renewed sense of unity among players. Jake L. Fischer of the Stein Line substack provided insight into the team’s transformation, highlighting how the locker room atmosphere has shifted. New starting point guard Dyson Daniel noted that players are now more vocal and collaborative, with communication improving significantly. “Everyone’s speaking up, and the locker room’s gelling,” Daniel said. Jalen Johnson echoed this sentiment, recalling how the team struggled with communication earlier in the season, particularly during a 23-point collapse against the Denver Nuggets in December. “Our communication allows us to stay together in those moments,” Johnson explained. He also emphasized that the current team feels like the closest-knit group he’s been part of in Atlanta. The Hawks’ confidence in Johnson has also been a focal point of recent rumors. While there were whispers about a potential trade involving Giannis Antetokounmpo, league sources confirm that Atlanta has ruled out such a deal.#atlanta_hawks #jalen_johnson #dyson_daniel #onyeka_okongwu #cj_mccollum
Nets vs Hawks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game The Brooklyn Nets will face the Atlanta Hawks in an Eastern Conference matchup at State Farm Arena tonight, with the game set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Jalen Johnson, the Hawks’ standout player, is expected to dominate the scoring, and our expert analysis highlights his potential to exceed 22.5 points in the contest. Johnson has been on a scoring tear recently, posting over 24 points in his last two games against the Nets and averaging 24.5 points per game against them this season. His recent performances, including a 35-point outburst against the Philadelphia 76ers and 27 points against the Dallas Mavericks, suggest he’s in a strong rhythm. The Hawks are favored in the spread, with Atlanta listed at -14 (-110) and Brooklyn at +14 (-110). The moneyline also favors the Hawks, with the team priced at -950 compared to the Nets’ +637. The over/under for total points is set at 226.5, with even money on both sides. Our best bet for the game is Johnson’s Over 22.5 points at -120, as his recent scoring efficiency and matchup against a weak Nets defense make him a strong proposition. For a same-game parlay, the analysis suggests combining three plays: Johnson Over 22.5 points, CJ McCollum Over 3.5 assists, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker Over 2.5 made threes. McCollum has been a reliable playmaker since joining the Hawks, averaging 3.8 assists in his last 25 games. With Dyson Daniels questionable, McCollum is likely to handle more ball distribution, ensuring at least four assists. Alexander-Walker, who hit 3-of-9 against the Nets in February, has been shooting well from beyond the arc and could capitalize on Brooklyn’s struggles against three-pointers.#atlanta_hawks #brooklyn_nets #jalen_johnson #state_farm_arena #c_j_mccollum
Final Injury Report for Nets-Hawks: Will Jonathan Kuminga, Michael Porter Jr. Play? The Atlanta Hawks host the Brooklyn Nets in an Eastern Conference matchup on Thursday night. The Hawks enter the game with a 34-31 record after extending their seven-game winning streak with a 108-99 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday. Jalen Johnson led the charge for Atlanta, scoring 27 points while adding seven rebounds and eight assists. Nickeil Alexader-Walker contributed 29 points and three assists. The Hawks aim to secure their eighth consecutive home win against a struggling Nets team, which carries a 17-48 record following a 97-105 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday. Michael Porter Jr. led Brooklyn with 19 points, while Danny Wolf added 13 points and eight rebounds off the bench. Both teams face potential absences due to injuries. The Nets have five players listed on their injury report, including Michael Porter Jr. and Nolan Traore. Porter Jr., sidelined by a right ankle sprain, will miss his first game since March 9. His absence could elevate the roles of Danny Wolf, Jalen Wilson, and Ochai Agbaji. Traore, ruled out due to rest, will miss his first game since January 17, potentially opening opportunities for Ben Saraf and Terence Mann. Day’Ron Sharpe is also out with a left thumb sprain, while Ziaire Williams is listed as questionable due to an illness. The Hawks have two players on their injury report: Jonathan Kuminga and Dyson Daniels. Kuminga, dealing with a left knee bone bruise, is in danger of missing his fourth consecutive game. His absence may lead to increased playing time for Corey Kispert, Zaccharie Risacher, and Mouhamed Gueye. Daniels, sidelined by a left great toe sprain, could miss his first game since February 9. The game is set for 7:30 p.m. ET in Atlanta.#atlanta_hawks #brooklyn_nets #jalen_johnson #michael_porter_jr #jonathan_kuminga
