The NBA may only have four games on tap this Monday, but there are still plenty of intriguing storylines and opportunities for fantasy basketball managers and sports bettors alike. Here’s a closer look at Monday’s matchups, along with some expert picks and betting advice to help you come out on top.
Key Matchups to Watch
Pelicans at Hawks: Dejounte Murray Revenge Game?
All eyes will be on Dejounte Murray as the star guard faces his former team, the Atlanta Hawks. Murray was shockingly traded by the Hawks last offseason and has been on a mission to prove them wrong ever since. Motivation will be high, making Murray an appealing DFS play and betting option in player prop markets.
Heat at Celtics: Eastern Conference Heavyweights Collide
Though the records may not show it, the Heat and Celtics have a rich history of playoff battles. Jayson Tatum and Jimmy Butler always seem to bring out the best in each other. With both teams fighting for playoff positioning, expect a hard-fought and intense matchup that could have DFS value with its competitive, up-tempo nature.
Lakers at Timberwolves: AD Primed to Feast
No matter the odds, you can never count out a LeBron James team. The Lakers have defied expectations to start the season strong. A major reason? Anthony Davis looking like his old dominant self, especially against Rudy Gobert and the Timberwolves. AD is coming off a 36-point outburst vs Minnesota and should be a focal point again for LA.
Top Fantasy Plays and Betting Picks
Payton Pritchard, Boston Celtics
With the Celtics’ backcourt banged up, Payton Pritchard has stepped up in a big way. The sharpshooting guard has scored 20+ in 3 straight, hitting over 5 threes per game in that stretch. Even if the C’s get some bodies back, Pritchard’s shooting stroke is too hot to ignore. He’s still available in over 50% of leagues as a great streaming play.
Betting Pick: Jalen Johnson over 19.5 points
After a slow start, Jalen Johnson is finding his groove for the Hawks. The athletic forward has tallied 20 or more in five straight contests. On Monday, he gets a ideal matchup vs a Pelicans squad that bleeds points to opposing power forwards. Trust the hot hand and ride Johnson’s over.
Johnson has really taken advantage of his opportunity with some key Hawks out. His ability to score from all three levels makes him a tough cover. I expect another aggressive, high-usage night from him against the Pels.
Fantasy analyst for a prominent sports betting website
Sneaky DFS Play: Ayo Dosunmu, Chicago Bulls
With Patrick Williams sidelined, Ayo Dosunmu has thrived in an increased role for Chicago. The second-year guard is a multi-category contributor who can stuff a stat sheet when given the minutes. Against a Nets defense that ranks near the bottom against opposing backcourts, Dosunmu could provide great value at low ownership in DFS tournaments.
Prop Bet to Hammer: AD over 26.5 points
We mentioned AD’s dominance vs Gobert and the Wolves earlier. Well, in his last four full games against Minnesota, Davis is averaging a whopping 31.7 ppg, with at least 27 points in all four contests, including 36 in the most recent meeting. With LeBron happily playing facilitator and AD being the focal point offensively, smash this over before the line moves!
Stud You Can’t Fade: Tatum over 22.5 points
Fresh off a 41-point outburst, Jayson Tatum is an auto-start in any fantasy format. The Celtics-Heat matchup has the playoff atmosphere that brings out the best in stars like Tatum. He’s topped 25+ in five of his last seven and should be heavily involved again, especially if Jaylen Brown sits. Fire up JT with confidence.
Monday’s NBA slate may be limited in quantity, but it certainly doesn’t lack in quality. By identifying the right matchups to attack and which stars are set up for success, you can gain a valuable edge in your fantasy leagues and bets. Exploit these picks and props to start your week off with a win!
