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
Tre Jones Set to Start in Thursday's Game Against the Lakers Tre Jones has been named to the starting lineup for Thursday's matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers, according to a report by The California Post. The decision comes as part of the team's strategic adjustments for the game, with Jones joining a group of key players in the first unit. Alongside him in the starting five will be Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Leonard Miller, and Jalen Smith. This marks Jones' return to the starting role for the season, where he has consistently contributed to the team's performance. As a starter, Jones has averaged 13.5 points, 6.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. His ability to control the pace of the offense and defend multiple positions has made him a valuable asset to the team's roster. The inclusion of Jones in the starting lineup is expected to provide a boost to the team's overall dynamics, particularly in high-stakes games like the one against the Lakers. The report highlights the significance of Jones' role in the team's current strategy, emphasizing his impact on both ends of the court. His leadership and playmaking skills have been critical in several recent games, and his presence in the starting five is likely to influence the team's approach to the matchup. The Lakers, known for their strong defense and versatile offense, will present a challenging opponent, making Jones' contributions even more crucial. The article also notes that the team's coaching staff has made deliberate choices in selecting the starting lineup, balancing experience with emerging talent. Jones' inclusion reflects his growing importance to the team's success, as well as the coaching staff's confidence in his ability to perform under pressure.#los_angeles_lakers #the_california_post #matas_buzelis #josh_giddey #tre_jones
Bulls' Tre Jones to Start Thursday Tre Jones is set to start for the Chicago Bulls in Thursday's matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers, according to a report from The California Post. The 2026 NBA season has seen Jones establish himself as a key contributor, and his inclusion in the starting lineup for this game marks a significant role in the team's strategy. Joining Jones in the first unit will be Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Leonard Miller, and Jalen Smith. As a starter this season, Jones has averaged 13.5 points, 6.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. His ability to impact both ends of the court has made him a valuable asset for the Bulls, particularly in high-stakes matchups. The decision to start Jones for Thursday's game reflects his consistent performance and the team's confidence in his contributions. The Bulls' coaching staff has shown a willingness to adjust lineups based on opponent strengths and team dynamics. Jones' inclusion in the starting five for this game against the Lakers suggests a strategic move to leverage his playmaking and defensive versatility. His role as a playmaker and perimeter defender has been a focal point of the Bulls' offensive and defensive schemes this season. Jones' performance as a starter has been a bright spot for the Bulls, especially in games where the team has needed a reliable floor general. His ability to distribute the ball and create opportunities for teammates has been a key factor in the team's success. The starting lineup for Thursday's game is expected to provide a balanced mix of scoring, playmaking, and defensive intensity, positioning the Bulls to compete against a strong Lakers squad. The game against the Lakers is a critical matchup for the Bulls, as both teams are vying for playoff positioning.#los_angeles_lakers #the_california_post #chicago_bulls #josh_giddey #tre_jones
Collin Sexton to Start Thursday Collin Sexton is set to start for the Bulls in their game against the Suns on Thursday. The decision comes as Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis are sidelined, with Leonard Miller also joining Sexton in the starting lineup. The move positions Sexton as a key player to watch, particularly in deeper fantasy leagues where his performance could provide significant value. The Bulls’ coaching staff has opted for Sexton over Giddey and Buzelis, likely due to his recent form and ability to contribute in multiple areas of the game. Miller’s inclusion adds depth to the backcourt, offering versatility that could be crucial in a matchup against the Suns’ defense. Fans and analysts are closely monitoring how the duo performs, given the importance of the game in the league standings. Sexton’s role in the starting lineup highlights his importance to the Bulls’ offensive strategy. His ability to score from both inside and outside, combined with his playmaking skills, makes him a valuable asset. The Suns, meanwhile, will need to adjust their defensive approach to contain Sexton’s impact, especially with their own backcourt players unavailable. The game is expected to be a key test for the Bulls as they aim to solidify their position in the competitive Western Conference. Sexton’s performance could play a pivotal role in determining the outcome, making him a focal point for both his team and opponents. As the season progresses, his ability to maintain consistency will be critical for the Bulls’ success.#matas_buzelis #collin_sexton #bulls #suns #josh_giddey
