Scottie Barnes ($9,300) has missed two games in a row with a sprained ankle, but he has been listed as questionable for Thursday’s matchup vs. the Nets, while Jakob Poeltl (groin) has been ruled out.
Barnes shedded his walking boot earlier this week and, given he hasn’t played since December 9, a return feels imminent for the 23-year-old. That being said, if Barnes suits up Thursday, he might be under a minutes restriction. This season, Barnes is averaging 20.6 points, 8.4 rebounds and 7.4 assists per game, all of which are career-highs.
RJ Barrett ($9,200) has been outstanding with Barnes sidelined for the last two, notching a triple-double vs. the Heat (49.75 FPTS) and then 32 points, nine assists and five rebounds vs. the Bulls (55.75 FPTS). However, if Barnes returns, Barrett’s role and upside will naturally decrease.
With Barnes on the floor this season, Barrett’s usage and assist rates have dropped 3.8 and 4.4 percentage points, respectively. Barrett’s player props for Thursday night may be inflated after his past two huge outings and, if Barnes plays, considering under on some of Barrett’s props may be a wise strategy.
Also, Jonathan Mogbo ($4,900) has started in place of Barnes, but Mogbo will shift back to the bench if Barnes is active. As for Poeltl being sidelined, Bruno Fernando ($4,200) should start at center for the Raptors in Poeltl’s absence. With the center missing his first game of the season on December 5, Fernando started and finished with four points, seven rebounds, two blocks, one assist and one steal across 18 minutes vs. the Thunder (18.75 FPTS). Going against a Brooklyn defense that ranks 27th in defensive efficiency this season, Fernando will be a viable punt play Thursday if he gets the spot start as expected.
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I am a promoter at DraftKings and am also an avid fan and user (my username is Hunta512) and may sometimes play on my personal account in the games that I offer advice on. Although I have expressed my personal view on the games and strategies above, they do not necessarily reflect the view(s) of DraftKings and do not constitute a representation that any particular strategy will guarantee success. All customers should use their own skills and judgment in building lineups. I may also deploy different players and strategies than what I recommend above. I am not an employee of DraftKings and do not have access to any non-public information.
