We’re rapidly approaching the midway point of the NBA season, when superstars begin to separate themselves from the rest of the pack. Big names, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron James, and Joel Embiid, are set to take the floor. That makes narrowing down a select group to start in season-long fantasy and DFS formats a difficult task. Here are the three forwards at the top of Thursday’s board:
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1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks vs. BKN ($11,400)
In a career filled with dominant campaigns, the 2024-25 season might be Giannis Antetokounmpo’s best yet. The Greek Freak has gotten off to an otherworldly start, putting up a league-leading 32.6 points in addition to 11.6 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 1.4 blocks. Averaging a whopping 61.1 DK fantasy points per game, it’s nearly impossible to look anywhere else when filling out a lineup.
Most teams are ill-equipped to defend a two-time MVP, and that includes Brooklyn. Over Antetokounmpo’s last six games vs. the Nets, he’s posted 29.7 points, 11.5 rebounds and 5.2 assists. When these two teams met on December 8th, the power forward put together a 34-point, 11-rebound masterpiece (61.75 FPTS). Even though he’s dealt with illness and injuries over the past few weeks, Giannis is still one of the safest picks in fantasy basketball.
2. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers vs. POR ($9,900)
Even after celebrating his 40th birthday, LeBron James remains one of the most formidable players in NBA history. Despite a rocky first month, the four-time MVP has recovered nicely this season, posting 23.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and a team-leading 8.9 assists. Currently riding a four-game stretch of at least 20 points scored, LBJ only seems to be getting better as we near the All-Star break.
James is in a prime spot to produce on Thursday night. Los Angeles’ superstar has thrived against the Trail Blazers, scoring at least 28 points in each of the previous ten games between these two teams. Portland is arguably worse on defense right now, surrendering the ninth-most DK fantasy points to opposing power forwards. Considering his history in this matchup, LeBron has a case over everyone on tonight’s board, including Antetokounmpo.
3. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics at MIN ($10,400)
Jayson Tatum is a mainstay on this list, regardless of which Celtics players are healthy. However, with Jaylen Brown (shoulder) potentially missing tonight’s game, the workload for Boston’s best player will never be higher. This season, the 26-year-old has shot a terrific 46.6% from the field, putting up 28.3 points, 9.5 rebounds and 5.5 assists.
Brown’s absence doesn’t guarantee automatic success against a quality Minnesota defense. This season, the Timberwolves are holding opposing small forwards to the fourth-fewest DK fantasy points. Tatum’s fantasy floor is sky-high, and that will remain true with or without his Boston co-star. Still, it’s hard to place him above James while costing $500 more. The five-time All-Star is a solid option like always, but there are a few names that might deliver more value on Thursday.
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All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook, lines and odds subject to change.
I am a promoter at DraftKings and am also an avid fan and user (my username is b.armetta) 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 skill 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.
