NBA DFS Picks & Lineup Advice: Saturday (3/8)

Saturday’s NBA DFS slate offers a compelling contrast, with seven games presenting a range of strategic approaches. From a potential offensive showcase in the Indiana Pacers vs. Atlanta Hawks clash (projected for a slate-high 243.5 total) to a potentially tighter, more defensive-minded contest between the Orlando Magic and Milwaukee Bucks (projected for a slate-low 218.5 total).

With varied in-game environments and the potential for shifts in player roles due to injuries, this slate calls for thoughtful builds. Player availability will also be key, as injuries could open up opportunities and create value.

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

NBA DraftKings & FanDuel DFS Primer

NBA DFS Core Plays

Giannis Antetokounmpo (PF, C – MIL)

DraftKings: $11,200
FanDuel: $11,400

Giannis Antetokounmpo might be overlooked by some DFS players tonight due to his matchup against the Orlando Magic, a team known for its strong defense. However, overlooking Antetokounmpo is always a mistake. He’s a player who transcends matchups, possessing a unique combination of size, athleticism and skill that creates mismatches against any opponent. His ability to dominate the paint and drive to the basket makes him a constant threat for a big fantasy performance.

Furthermore, Antetokounmpo has consistently performed well against the Magic this season. In three games against them, he’s averaging an impressive 34.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and two steals. This demonstrates his ability to overcome the Magic’s defensive prowess and deliver elite fantasy production.

Luka Doncic (PG – LAL)

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

Luka Doncic, now free from any minute restrictions, has been showcasing his elite talent in a Los Angeles Lakers uniform. He’s been on a scoring tear, logging at least 29 points in his last four games, and has also secured two double-doubles during that span, highlighting his ability to contribute across the board. Doncic’s all-around game, encompassing scoring, rebounding and assists, makes him a DFS powerhouse.

Tonight, Doncic faces a challenging road matchup against the Boston Celtics. While the Celtics are a formidable team, their defensive efficiency has been merely middle-of-the-pack over their last five games. This presents an opportunity for Doncic to exploit potential defensive lapses and deliver a big performance.

NBA DFS Cash Game Targets

Draymond Green (PF, C – GSW)

DraftKings: $5,900
FanDuel: $6,200

Draymond Green has been a reliable source of production for the Golden State Warriors, consistently filling the stat sheet with his well-rounded skillset. Over his last 10 games, he’s averaging 11.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.1 assists and 1.5 steals. Green’s versatility and playmaking make him a valuable asset in DFS, as he can rack up fantasy points even without scoring a ton of points.

Tonight, Green faces the Detroit Pistons, a team playing at the sixth-fastest pace in the league over their last five games. This up-tempo style of play should benefit Green, as it will create more opportunities for him to contribute with assists, rebounds and steals.

Al Horford (PF, C – BOS)

DraftKings: $5,000
FanDuel: $5,100

If Kristaps Porziņgis is ruled out for tonight’s contest against the Los Angeles Lakers, Al Horford becomes a highly appealing cash game play. With Porziņgis sidelined, Horford’s role and minutes are expected to increase significantly, making him a reliable source of fantasy points.

In the last three games Porziņgis has missed, Horford has averaged 15.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, two assists and 1.5 steals, demonstrating his ability to contribute across multiple categories.

Aaron Nesmith (SG, SF – IND)

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

With Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin both potentially sidelined tonight, Aaron Nesmith is poised for a significant increase in playing time, likely exceeding 30 minutes. He demonstrated his ability to step up in their absence last game, logging 21 points, three rebounds and two assists in 35 minutes of action.

Nesmith is a versatile wing player who excels at hustle plays, defensive intensity and opportunistic scoring. He’s shown an improved ability to knock down perimeter shots and attack the basket when given the chance.

If both Haliburton and Mathurin are ruled out, Nesmith becomes a strong cash game consideration due to his expected volume and consistent effort. However, even if one of them returns to the lineup, Nesmith becomes a GPP option.

NBA DFS GPP Targets

Cade Cunningham (PG – DET)

DraftKings: $10,100
FanDuel: $10,700

Cade Cunningham faces a tough test tonight against the Golden State Warriors, but the Detroit Pistons will heavily rely on him to shoulder the offensive burden. Cunningham’s playmaking and scoring abilities will be crucial if Detroit hopes to stay competitive. He’s entering this matchup with momentum, coming off a stellar performance where he tallied 37 points, seven rebounds and 10 assists, demonstrating his capacity for high-ceiling fantasy nights.

While the Warriors possess a solid defense, Cunningham’s recent form and his pivotal role in the Pistons’ offense make him a compelling DFS option. His ability to contribute across all categories provides a high fantasy floor, and his demonstrated potential for explosive scoring nights makes him an intriguing tournament play.

Bam Adebayo (PF, C – MIA)

DraftKings: $9,300
FanDuel: $9,100

With Nikola Vucevic doubtful for tonight’s game, Bam Adebayo is primed for a dominant performance against the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls’ frontcourt will be significantly weakened, creating a favorable matchup for Adebayo, who has been playing at an elite level.

In his last five games, he’s averaging an impressive 26 points, 10.8 rebounds, five assists and 1.6 steals, showcasing his ability to contribute in all facets of the game.

Pascal Siakam (PF – IND)

DraftKings: $7,900
FanDuel: $8,200

Pascal Siakam’s fantasy production has been a rollercoaster ride, making him a candidate only for tournament lineups. His volatility can be frustrating for cash games, but his upside is undeniable. He’s coming off a monster performance against the Atlanta Hawks, the same team he faces tonight, where he delivered 35 points, nine rebounds and three assists. This recent explosion showcases his potential for high-ceiling fantasy nights.

With Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin potentially sidelined, Siakam’s usage rate is expected to be in the low 30s, providing him with ample opportunities to replicate his previous success. Against the Hawks, who have struggled defensively, Siakam’s aggressive scoring and rebounding should translate to a strong fantasy output.

NBA DFS Value Plays

Tre Jones (PG – CHI)

DraftKings: $4,600
FanDuel: $5,100

With Lonzo Ball sidelined for the past three games, Tre Jones has stepped up for the Chicago Bulls, providing valuable playmaking and scoring. He’s averaging 13.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 5.7 assists during that stretch, showcasing his ability to contribute across multiple categories.

Tonight, Jones faces a tough matchup against the Miami Heat, a team that bolstered their defense at the trade deadline. However, Jones is expected to see 30+ minutes of playing time, which provides ample opportunity for him to accumulate fantasy points. Additionally, the Heat are playing on zero days of rest, leading to some fatigue and defensive lapses.

Davion Mitchell (PG – MIA)

DraftKings: $4,800
FanDuel: $4,600

Davion Mitchell has carved out a consistent role for the Miami Heat, earning the third-most minutes on the team over their last five games. During this stretch, he’s providing valuable contributions across the board, averaging 9.3 points, three rebounds, 7.5 assists and one steal per game. While his scoring may not be explosive, his ability to distribute and contribute defensively makes him a valuable fantasy asset.

Tonight, Mitchell faces a Chicago Bulls team that has struggled defensively, ranking 28th in defensive efficiency over their last three games. Additionally, the Bulls are playing at the sixth-fastest pace in the league, suggesting a high-tempo matchup. This combination of a porous defense and a fast-paced game creates ample opportunity for Mitchell to exceed his value.

Georges Niang (SF, PF – ATL)

DraftKings: $4,200
FanDuel: $4,700

Georges Niang delivered a stellar performance in his most recent outing against the Indiana Pacers, showcasing his offensive capabilities. He racked up 24 points, six rebounds and three assists while boasting a 28.2% usage rate, indicating a significant role in the offense during his 24 minutes on the court. Niang proved he can be a reliable contributor when given the opportunity, and his recent performance highlights his potential for value.

Tonight, Niang faces the same Pacers team, and the situation could be even more favorable. With Terance Mann and Caris LeVert both questionable, Niang could see a significant increase in minutes if either or both are ruled out. This potential boost in playing time would translate to more opportunities for Niang to replicate his previous success, making him an intriguing option.