NBA DFS Picks & Lineup Advice: Saturday (3/15)

Tonight’s seven-game NBA DFS slate is primed for high-scoring action, with every matchup boasting a projected total exceeding 225 points.

While we anticipate potential blowouts in the Washington Wizards vs. Denver Nuggets (15.5-point spread) and Chicago Bulls vs. Houston Rockets (10-point spread) games, the remaining contests are expected to be tightly contested, with spreads within 6.5 points. This creates a dynamic landscape for DFS players, balancing the need to identify high-scoring options with the potential for reduced minutes in the projected blowouts.

In this primer, we will guide you through the key matchups, highlight the top plays at each position and uncover some valuable sleepers who can help you afford the stars. Let’s dive in and analyze the players who will give you an edge on this Saturday slate.

View the best player prop bets for tonight’s slate with our NBA Prop Bet Cheat Sheet

Tonight’s seven-game NBA DFS slate is primed for high-scoring action, with every matchup boasting a projected total exceeding 225 points.

View the best player prop bets for tonight’s slate with our NBA Prop Bet Cheat Sheet

NBA DraftKings & FanDuel DFS Primer

NBA DFS Core Plays

Giannis Antetokounmpo (PF, C – MIL)

DraftKings: $11,800
FanDuel: $11,500

Giannis Antetokounmpo is delivering his signature brand of elite basketball, making him a premium option worthy of his high salary. His consistent dominance is on full display, and he’s poised to thrive in tonight’s matchup against the Indiana Pacers, which boasts the highest projected total on the slate. Antetokounmpo has consistently found success against the Pacers this season, averaging an impressive 28.7 points, 13 rebounds and 7.7 assists in three games.

Adding to Antetokounmpo’s appeal is the Pacers’ schedule; they are playing on zero days of rest, potentially leading to defensive lapses and fatigue. This creates a favorable environment for Antetokounmpo to exploit his physical advantages and deliver a monster performance.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG – OKC)

DraftKings: $11,500
FanDuel: $11,600

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander faces a Detroit Pistons team tonight playing at the fourth-fastest pace in the league over their past five games, setting the stage for a potentially high-scoring affair. Gilgeous-Alexander’s offensive prowess is undeniable and he’s been consistently delivering elite fantasy production. He’s recorded at least 25 points in 10 consecutive games, showcasing his remarkable scoring consistency.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP candidacy is well-deserved, reflecting his exceptional all-around play. Against a fast-paced Pistons team, Gilgeous-Alexander should have ample opportunities to showcase his scoring and playmaking skills.

NBA DFS Cash Game Targets

Stephon Castle (PG, SG – SAS)

DraftKings: $6,200
FanDuel: $7,000

With De’Aaron Fox sidelined, Stephon Castle stepped up in a major way last game, leading the team with a 29.7% usage rate and delivering an impressive 26-point performance. The team will be relying on him heavily with Fox out for the remainder of the season, making Castle a focal point of their offensive strategy. Castle’s ability to handle increased responsibility and his recent scoring outburst make him an intriguing DFS option.

Tonight, Castle faces the New Orleans Pelicans, a team that has struggled defensively, ranking 26th in defensive efficiency over their last five games. This presents a favorable matchup for Castle, who should have ample opportunities to showcase his scoring and playmaking skills.

Tre Jones (PG – CHI)

DraftKings: $5,400
FanDuel: $6,200

Tre Jones is capitalizing on his increased playing time, delivering solid fantasy production. Over his last four games, he’s averaging 15.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.5 steals, demonstrating his ability to contribute across multiple categories. Jones is proving to be a valuable asset for the Chicago Bulls. His recent performances highlight his potential for DFS value.

While the Houston Rockets present a challenging matchup, Jones’ expanded role and potential absence of Josh Giddey create a favorable scenario for him to exceed his value. With more opportunities to handle the ball and initiate the offense, Jones should be able to rack up assists and contribute in other categories.

Jabari Smith Jr. (PF, C – HOU)

DraftKings: $4,900
FanDuel: $5,300

Since returning from injury, Jabari Smith Jr. has been a consistent contributor for the Houston Rockets, putting together a solid March campaign, averaging 12.4 points and 6.6 rebounds. Smith is finding his rhythm and providing steady production, making him a reliable option for DFS lineups.

Tonight, Smith faces the Chicago Bulls, a team that ranks third in pace of play over their last five games. This up-tempo style of play should create more opportunities for Smith to contribute with scoring and rebounding. His affordable price point, combined with the favorable game environment, makes him an appealing value play with the potential to exceed his salary.

NBA DFS GPP Targets

Cade Cunningham (PG – DET)

DraftKings: $10,300
FanDuel: $10,600

Cade Cunningham is currently on a scoring tear, delivering consistent offensive production for the Detroit Pistons. He’s been on fire, scoring at least 27 points in five consecutive games, showcasing his ability to carry the offensive load. Cunningham’s scoring prowess and playmaking skills make him a valuable asset for the Pistons and proving to be a reliable fantasy option.

Tonight, Cunningham faces a tough challenge against the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team known for its strong defense. However, the Pistons will heavily rely on Cunningham to keep the game competitive. His high usage rate and ability to create his own shot should translate to ample opportunities for fantasy production. Even in a challenging matchup, Cunningham’s recent form and pivotal role in the Pistons’ offense make him a compelling DFS play.

Zion Williamson (SF, PF – NOP)

DraftKings: $9,400
FanDuel: $9,200

Zion Williamson’s recent game log paints a picture of inconsistency over his last four games, with his fantasy production fluctuating like a seesaw. However, tonight’s matchup against the San Antonio Spurs presents a prime opportunity for him to deliver a dominant performance. The Spurs are currently dealing with a significant number of injuries and rank dead last in defensive efficiency over their last five games, creating a favorable environment for Williamson to exploit his physical advantages.

Williamson’s upside is undeniable. His ability to score in the paint and draw fouls makes him a constant threat for a big fantasy night. The fact he’s playing with a day of rest further enhances his appeal, as he should be fresh and ready to attack the Spurs’ vulnerable defense.

Brook Lopez (C – MIL)

DraftKings: $5,400
FanDuel: $6,200

Brook Lopez has been on a scoring hot streak, logging back-to-back games with 23 points, with one of those performances coming against tonight’s opponent, the Indiana Pacers. This recent success suggests he’s found his rhythm and is ready to contribute offensively.

Tonight’s matchup against the Pacers has the second-highest total on the slate, indicating a high-scoring environment where Lopez should be heavily involved in the Milwaukee Bucks’ offensive game plan. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and rim protection on the defensive end makes him a valuable asset.

NBA DFS Value Plays

Moses Moody (SF, PF – GSW)

DraftKings: $4,800
FanDuel: $4,900

Moses Moody is capitalizing on his increased playing time for the Golden State Warriors, demonstrating his potential as a valuable fantasy asset. He’s seizing the opportunity to showcase his skills, and his recent performances reflect his growing confidence. Over his last five games, Moody is averaging 30.2 minutes per game, translating to solid production across the board with 13.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.4 steals per contest.

Karlo Matkovic (C – NOP)

DraftKings: $4,600
FanDuel: $5,000

Karlo Matkovic has been steadily earning more playing time for the New Orleans Pelicans, averaging 23.3 minutes over their last five games. During this stretch, he’s demonstrated his value as a versatile big man, producing solid numbers across the board, averaging 10.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.4 blocks.

With Yves Missi questionable, Matkovic’s role could expand even further. If Missi is ruled out, Matkovic is poised to see an uptick in minutes, providing him with more opportunities to rack up fantasy points. His ability to score, rebound and protect the rim makes him an intriguing option, especially if you’re looking for a value play in the frontcourt.

Marcus Smart (SG, SF – WAS)

DraftKings: $4,000
FanDuel: $4,600

Marcus Smart’s role is set to expand tonight against the Denver Nuggets with Bilal Coulibaly and Malcolm Brogdon both sidelined. This creates a prime opportunity for Smart to showcase his all-around game. He’s been in solid form recently, averaging 15.5 points, three rebounds and 4.5 assists over his last two outings, demonstrating his ability to contribute as a scorer and playmaker.

Adding to his appeal is the Nuggets’ schedule. They are playing on zero days of rest, which could lead to fatigue and potentially even some rest for key players. This scenario favors Smart, who excels at capitalizing on opponent vulnerabilities.