Strategy and Stats for 05/15/24 NBA Daily Fantasy Slate: Optimize Your Lineup

As the clock strikes 07:00 PM EST tonight, the NBA fantasy slate kicks off with an electrifying lineup, but all eyes are set on the marquee matchup at 09:30 PM EST where the Dallas Mavericks clash with the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. With an Over/Under set at a tantalizing 212.5, fantasy managers should brace for a high-scoring affair. This game not only promises thrilling basketball but is also a goldmine for DFS players, spotlighting top-tier talent like Luka Dončić, who has been a statistical powerhouse, averaging a near triple-double. As we dive deeper into tonight’s games, keep an eye on potential sleeper picks and strategic plays that could turn the tides in your fantasy lineup. Let’s break down the key players and matchups that will define this evening’s fantasy basketball landscape.

Point Guard Fantasy Insights

Luka Doncic ($11100), Dallas Mavericks – Projected 59.5 pts

Luka Doncic continues to be a dominant force in daily fantasy sports, especially evident in his recent performances. Over the last five games, Doncic has averaged 52.9 daily fantasy points. Despite a slight dip compared to his previous five-game stretch where he averaged 56.7 points, his overall contributions across the board remain stellar. He’s putting up 23.2 points, 8.8 assists, and 10.0 rebounds per game, with a shooting efficiency of 45.3% from the field. Although his three-point shooting percentage sits lower at 25.6%, his high volume of play, averaging 41.3 minutes and 20.6 shots per game, keeps his fantasy value high. Facing the Thunder, who rank 13th against PGs, Doncic’s matchup is favorable, and his projected DFS value score of 5.4 makes him a strong candidate for any DFS lineup.

Shooting Guard Spotlight

Tim Hardaway Jr. ($4100), Dallas Mavericks – Projected 14.3 pts

Tim Hardaway Jr. has been navigating a somewhat turbulent stretch in his NBA season with the Dallas Mavericks. Over his last five games, Hardaway has managed to average 12.0 daily fantasy points, a slight dip from his previous five-game average of 13.4 points. This reduction in performance is mirrored across his statistical contributions, with slight decreases in points, assists, and rebounds per game. Notably, his field goal efficiency has seen a significant drop from an impressive 70.0% to 54.5%, although he has improved his three-point shooting marginally to 33.3%. Despite these fluctuations, Hardaway’s minutes on the court have slightly decreased, now averaging 16.1 minutes per game. Facing the Thunder, who rank 13th in defense against SGs, might not provide the easiest matchup for Hardaway to exploit. With a DraftKings salary of $4100 and a projected point tally of 14.3, his DFS value score stands at 3.5, indicating a player who might not offer the best value in upcoming fantasy lineups. Fantasy managers should consider these factors carefully when deciding on Hardaway’s inclusion in their teams.

Top Small Forward Picks for Today’s DFS Lineup

Luguentz Dort ($4800), Oklahoma City Thunder – Projected 24.1 pts

As we dive into the daily fantasy sports potential of Luguentz Dort, his recent performances suggest a nuanced evaluation. Over his last five games, Dort has averaged 24.0 daily fantasy points, a slight uptick from his previous set of games where he averaged 22.4 points. His scoring has dipped slightly to 10.2 points per game from 12.5, but his rebounding has shown significant improvement, jumping from 2.0 to 5.6 rebounds per game. Despite a decrease in shooting efficiency from the field (31.2% down from 33.3%) and a notable drop in three-point accuracy (35.5% down from an impressive 52.2%), Dort’s increased court time (34.8 minutes per game) and higher shot volume (9.4 shots per game) position him as a player with potential upside. Facing the Mavericks, who rank #21 against SFs, Dort’s matchup could favor his style of play, especially considering his 5.0 DFS value score at a DraftKings salary of $4800. This makes him a strong value play in today’s DFS contests.

Power Forward Analysis: Top DFS Picks

PJ Washington ($7100), Dallas Mavericks – Projected 29.7 pts

PJ Washington has been a beacon of consistency and improvement for the Dallas Mavericks, making him a noteworthy consideration for your DFS lineup. Over his last five games, Washington has averaged 37.0 daily fantasy points, a significant uptick from his previous five-game stretch where he averaged 26.5 points. This improvement is highlighted by his scoring jump to 20.2 points per game from 12.2, alongside increases in assists and rebounds. His shooting has seen a mixed trend; while his field goal percentage dipped to 45.2% from an exceptional 63.2%, his three-point shooting accuracy soared to 51.1% from 30.0%. Despite the slight decrease in minutes, down by 0.6 to 36.3 minutes per game, Washington’s shot attempts have nearly doubled to 15.2 per game, underlining his growing role in the Mavericks’ offensive schemes. Facing the Thunder, ranked #17 against PFs, Washington’s matchup looks favorable. His DFS value score stands at 4.2, categorizing him as a core value player in the upcoming slate. His consistent floor and potential for high ceiling make him a solid pick, especially considering his recent form and the defensive vulnerabilities of his next opponent.

Center Position Fantasy Analysis

Chet Holmgren ($7000), Oklahoma City Thunder – Projected 41.2 pts

Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder is shaping up to be a pivotal player in daily fantasy sports, especially considering his recent performances. Over the last five games, Holmgren has averaged 35.6 daily fantasy points, a slight dip from his previous five-game stretch where he averaged 37.9. Despite this, his scoring remains robust at 15.0 points per game, complemented by 3.0 assists and 7.8 rebounds. His shooting accuracy stands out at 63.9% from the field, although his three-point shooting has cooled to 22.7%. Holmgren’s increased court time, now averaging 35.6 minutes per game, up from 25.1, suggests a growing reliance on him in the Thunder’s gameplay, which could be crucial against the Mavericks’ strong defense against centers. His DraftKings salary of $7000 and a DFS value score of 5.9 positions him as a strong value pick for the upcoming slate. Fantasy managers should consider Holmgren’s solid performance and increased role when setting their lineups.