The weekend is almost here, and that means it’s time to lock in your fantasy basketball lineups and place your bets for Friday’s sizzling NBA action. With a jam-packed 13-game slate on tap, there are countless opportunities to cash in big. But where should you focus your attention? Fear not, because we’ve got you covered with the inside scoop on the players and matchups you need to know about.
Fantasy Streamers to Elevate Your Lineup
Looking for some sneaky pickups to give your fantasy squad a boost? Check out these under-the-radar options who could pay major dividends:
Alexandre Sarr, Washington Wizards
The rookie big man is making waves with his defensive prowess. Sarr has rejected at least two shots in every game of his young career and is fresh off his first double-double. He’s a blocks and boards monster who’s starting to find his offensive groove.
Jose Alvarado, New Orleans Pelicans
With the Pelicans’ backcourt banged up, Alvarado has stepped into a featured role and is stuffing the stat sheet. The pesky guard has topped 16 points in four straight while chipping in dimes, triples, and steals. Ride the hot hand while he has the green light.
Scotty Pippen Jr., Memphis Grizzlies
The versatile Pippen should see a major uptick in usage with Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Marcus Smart all sidelined. The rookie has flashed his upside with three double-doubles already and makes for an enticing source of points and dimes.
Betting Picks to Ponder
Before locking in your wagers, consider these savvy plays with serious profit potential:
- Cade Cunningham Double-Double: The surging sophomore has notched back-to-back triple-doubles and draws a friendly matchup with the Hawks’ susceptible defense. Count on Cunningham to stuff the box score yet again.
- Karl-Anthony Towns Pts+Rebs Over: KAT has been a man possessed lately, topping 29 points and 14 boards per night over his last four outings. He should feast on a Bucks frontcourt that’s a bit long in the tooth on the second leg of a back-to-back.
- Cavaliers-Warriors Under 231.5: Sure, these teams can light up the scoreboard, but they’re also two of the league’s stingiest defenses. Look for the intensity to ratchet up with a playoff-caliber feel in this potential NBA Finals preview.
With these fantasy gems and betting angles in your arsenal, you’ll be well-positioned to conquer Friday’s colossal NBA slate. Study the matchups, trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to take some chances. After all, no risk, no reward. Now go out there and dominate like the fantasy hoops guru and betting maverick you were born to be!