Seven games are on tap for Tuesday, with 14 teams set to tip off across the NBA. That means plenty of big names are expected to take the floor, including Tyrese Maxey, LeBron James, and Jayson Tatum. With so many stars in action, narrowing down who to start in season-long fantasy and DFS formats is a difficult task. Here are the three guards at the top of tonight’s fantasy basketball rankings:
Set your DraftKings fantasy basketball lineups here: NBA $200K Fadeaway [$50K to 1st]
1. Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers vs. DAL ($9,900)
Despite a rocky start, it’s been a season to remember for Tyrese Maxey. With aging co-stars Joel Embiid and Paul George frequently injured, the 24-year-old has had to carry Philadelphia’s offense. The results have been stellar: 27.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 6.0 assists through 41 games (46.4 FPTS). The guard hasn’t had the most efficient shooting splits (44.2/34.9/87.3), but that’s to be expected when taking 21.6 field goal attempts per game.
As of now, Embiid (knee) is questionable to play tonight vs. Dallas. If the big man does return, Maxey’s production wouldn’t warrant his top position on Tuesday’s fantasy basketball rankings. Still, the former All-Star is a name managers need to consider in their lineups under any circumstance. Maxey has gone over 50.0 fantasy points in six of his last eight appearances. Another spectacular performance would justify Tuesday’s hefty price tag.
2. James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers vs. LAL ($9,200)
Now that Kawhi Leonard is back, the Clippers have never been healthier. Even without its best player, Los Angeles managed to stay alive in a crowded Western Conference playoff race. Much of the credit goes to James Harden, who has operated as both a lead playmaker and a dangerous scorer. This season, the former MVP has posted 21.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 8.4 assists (45.5 FPTS).
Ahead of a marquee Tuesday night matchup, Los Angeles will need its stars to step up. That shouldn’t be too difficult against a Lakers team allowing the 14th-most DK fantasy points to point guards. When these two squads last met on January 19th, Harden recorded 21 points, four rebounds and 12 assists (47.0 FPTS). The Beard should have little difficulty posting another solid stat line against a shorthanded opponent.
3. Tyler Herro, Miami Heat at CHI ($8,400)
The vibes in Miami aren’t great, as Jimmy Butler’s trade request looms over the entire franchise. However, the excellent play of Tyler Herro has certainly eased concerns over what comes next for the Heat. This season, the guard has put up career highs in 23.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game. Impressively, the Kentucky alum’s efficiency has improved as well; he’s shooting 47.0% from the field (39.4 3PT%).
The first-time All-Star has an opportunity to dominate on Tuesday. This season, Chicago has allowed the second-most points per game (121.0) and the second-most assists per game (29.1) to opponents. The Bulls have struggled mightily against point guards, allowing the third-most fantasy points to the position. Keeping those numbers in mind, Herro could be a steal as the tenth-most expensive guard on tonight’s board.
