The NBA’s second half is underway, with just a handful of weeks remaining in the regular season. Ten more teams will take the court on Thursday evening for a five-game slate. That includes plenty of superstars, such as Luka Doncic, Kevin Durant and Nikola Jokic. With several big names in action, narrowing down who to start in season-long fantasy and DFS formats isn’t easy. Here are the three forwards at the top of tonight’s fantasy basketball rankings:
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1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks vs. DEN ($10,700)
Ahead of a primetime showdown with the Nuggets, Giannis Antetokounmpo stands alone on tonight’s list of forwards. The Greek Freak has had arguably his best season yet, which is saying a lot. Through 45 games, the two-time MVP has averaged 31.0 points, 12.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game (59.1 FPTS). On defense, he’s tallied 1.3 blocks and 0.8 steals.
The Nuggets might be one of the best teams in basketball, but it isn’t due to their defense. This season, Denver has allowed the seventh-most points (117.5) and the most assists (29.3) per game. In each of his last four outings since returning from a calf injury, Antetokounmpo has gone under his fantasy points per game average. It’s doubtful that continues tonight against a squad that bleeds points. Even at a high price, you can’t go wrong with Giannis on Thursday.
2. Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns vs. NOP ($9,000)
Despite all the trade rumors and dysfunction on the Suns, Kevin Durant remains one of the NBA’s best scorers. The 36-year-old has showed no signs of slowing down this season, recording 45.1 fantasy points per game. Over 45 appearances, he’s posted 26.9 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.3 assists while shooting 53.0% from the field (40.2 3PT%).
KD’s elite combination of volume and efficiency gives him a solid floor for production. Facing an atrocious defense elevates the former MVP to the top of tonight’s fantasy basketball rankings. Phoenix’s opponent, the Pelicans, have given up the most fantasy points to power forwards this season. In addition, New Orleans has coughed up the sixth-most points (117.9) and the third-most three-pointers made (14.5) per game. At nearly $2,000 less, Durant is a solid pivot for managers looking to avoid Antetokounmpo’s price tag.
3. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers vs. MIN ($9,900)
The Lakers have been rejuvenated by the Luka Doncic trade, reeling off three straight wins. However, it’s been LeBron James leading the way. Even at the age of 40, LBJ is currently enjoying one of the best stretches of his career. Since February 1st, the four-time MVP has averaged 29.0 points, 9.4 rebounds and 7.4 assists while shooting 55.7% from the field.
As great as James has been recently, this isn’t the perfect spot for him to dominate. The Timberwolves possess one of the association’s best defenses, allowing the fourth-fewest points per game (107.4). The King has looked mortal during his two meetings with Minnesota this season, averaging a combined 13.0 points. This is a different LeBron, and a different Los Angeles roster. Still, it’s difficult to rank the future Hall of Famer any higher on Thursday’s list.
