X
Lost password?

Don't have an account?
Gain Access Now

X

Receive free daily analysis

NFL
NBA
NHL
NASCAR
CFB
MLB
MMA
PGA
ESPORTS
BETTING

Already have an account? Log In

X

Forgot Password


POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Articles & Tools
Import Your Leagues
Daily Stats & Leaders
All Pitcher Matchups
Compare Any Players
Compare Any Players
Rookies & Call-Ups
24x7 News and Alerts

FanDuel NBA DFS Picks for Today (Thursday, 2/27/25): Daily Fantasy Basketball Advice

Kyrie Irving - NBA DFS Lineup Picks, Fantasy Basketball Rankings

Dennis Clausen's favorite FanDuel NBA DFS picks for today, Thursday - 2/27/25. His top daily fantasy basketball lineup sleepers and value picks for FanDuel DFS contests.

Wednesday night featured nine games around the National Basketball Association. The Pistons scored an impressive win over the Boston Celtics, while the Brooklyn Nets gave OKC a scare. 

The league has five contests on the schedule for Thursday night. At this point in the season, every win counts. Still, things matter even more for potential Play-In clubs like Dallas, Golden State, Minnesota, and Phoenix, who will all be in action.  For DraftKings picks, check out Thunder Dan's article here!

This article will provide my daily fantasy basketball lineup picks for FanDuel on 2/27/25. Remember to monitor NBA injury news and our awesome NBA injuries report tool, as the slate can completely change before lineups lock at 7:00 p.m. EST on FanDuel. 

Featured Promo: Get any DFS Premium Bundle for for 50% off using code SUMMER! Win more with expert advice from proven winners and exclusive DFS tools. Get instant access to RotoBaller's Lineup Optimizers, Research Stations, daily picks and VIP chat rooms across 10 sports! Go Premium, Win More!

 

FanDuel NBA DFS Core Picks

Kyrie Irving - PG, vs. CHA ($9,200) 

Luka Doncic is now a Laker, leaving the Mavs in the hands of Irving. But the multi-time All-Star is up to the task. Dallas has had issues keeping guys healthy this season; Anthony Davis is sidelined with an adductor strain, Dereck Lively II has a stress fracture in his right ankle, and Daniel Gafford has been bothered by a sprained knee.

It doesn’t end there, with P.J. Washington listed as questionable for the matchup versus the Hornets. Usually, Irving gains his share of interest from DFS participants. However, with so many injuries on the roster, Irving, who had 60.4 fantasy points on Tuesday against the Los Angeles Lakers, could be the highest-scoring backcourt option on the slate.  

Aaron Gordon – PF, @ MIL ($5,800) 

Gordon has been plagued by a calf injury for most of the season. He missed nine straight games until he eventually returned for the January 12 showdown with the Dallas Mavericks. Since then, the veteran had some rough outings while he worked his way back to form.

But he’s turned up the volume of late, scoring 25 points in Monday’s win over the Pacers, his most productive scoring effort since November. DFS managers should be aware that Gordon is probable for Thursday’s clash with the Bucks. However, he should be good to go. With a generous $5,800 rostering cost, Gordon should find a spot in most DFS lineups, assuming he’s cleared to suit up. 

Brook Lopez - C, vs. DEN ($6,000) 

The Bucks made the move to acquire Kyle Kuzma ahead of the trade deadline. In exchange, the Wizards received Khris Middleton, a player who was instrumental to the clubs’ success over the years. While Middleton hasn’t been the healthiest (or available) this season, his departure still opens the door for others to get more involved.

Lopez has been one of those players who has benefited from Middleton’s departure. The big man has averaged 12.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks this season. However, in seven games since then Middleton/Kuzma swap, Lopez has averaged 14.4 points, 6.7 boards, and 2.4 blocks. DFS managers should keep him on the radar against a Denver team that has allowed 116.0 points per contest this season. 

Also Consider: Nikola Jokic (C, $12,800), Zion Williamson (PF, $9,100), Trey Murphy III (SF/PF, $8,400), Naz Reid (PF/C, $7,900), Christian Braun (SG/SF, $6,100), Klay Thompson (SG/SF, $5,400)

 

FanDuel NBA DFS Tournament Pivots

Damian Lillard - PG, vs. DEN ($8,800) 

After Luka Doncic’s stellar performance against his former team on Tuesday, he’ll likely draw a ton of interest from fantasy managers. With that in mind, DFS participants shouldn’t forget about Lillard, who shot a rough 7-for-22 from the field in Tuesday’s narrow three-point loss to the Houston Rockets.

With that game behind the 34-year-old, the Bucks will look to get on track against the Nuggets. Denver is potent on the offensive end, that’s for sure. Yet, the team hasn’t been the most efficient on the defensive side of the ball, meaning Lillard should easily play better than he did on Tuesday. 

 

FanDuel NBA DFS Value Picks

KJ Simpson – PG - @ DAL ($4,800) 

LaMelo Ball didn’t suit up on Tuesday against the Warriors and is in danger of missing Thursday’s clash with the Mavericks. If he doesn’t get on the floor, Simpson should remain more involved. The former Colorado Buffalo looked good versus Golden State, amassing a team-high 16 points with six boards, two assists, and two steals.

He made only one of his seven tries from behind the arc. On the other hand, Simpson made up for it by posting a usage percentage of 23.7. With that said, if Ball is cleared for action, Simpson can be left out of DFS lineups. But if Ball is ruled out, the upside is there.  

Anthony Black - PG/SG, vs. GS ($4,700) 

The Magic have had their share of injuries throughout the 2024-25 campaign, with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner missing extended time due to torn obliques. While both players have since returned, Orlando has most recently been dealing with the absence of Jalen Suggs. The 23-year-old injured his back at the start of 2025, forcing him to miss 10 games before returning on January 25 against the Pistons.

Unfortunately, he sustained a quad contusion in that one and wIll now miss his 14th straight contest on Thursday when Orlando meets Golden State. To make matters worse, Cole Anthony hyperextended his left knee in Tuesday’s loss to the mighty Cavaliers and is considered questionable heading into the matchup with the Warriors.

If Anthony isn’t available, Black will presumably get the start at the one. The 2023 No. 6 overall pick has started nine times this season, averaging 8.1 points, 2.8 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.0 steals. Granted, it will still be business as usual for the Magic, with Banchero and Wagner carrying the load on the offensive end. Yet, Black may find himself in the position to at least hit the five-times value mark.  

Karlo Matkovic – PF/C, @ PHO ($4,500) 

The Pelicans have plenty of names listed on the injury report moving toward Thursday’s game against the Suns. The list includes Kelly Olynyk, who will get the night off to rest before presumably returning on Friday for the rematch.

As a result, Matkovic might take over at the four spot to begin the game. But even if the rookie doesn’t get the start, his ceiling is considerably higher, so he’ll make an excellent value option for those willing to take a risk.  

Also Consider: Damion Baugh (PG, $5,000 - If LaMelo Ball doesn't play), Kevin Porter Jr. (PG, SG, $4,800), Dorian Finney-Smith (PF, $4,200)

 

My Favorite NBA DFS Picks for Today

Here is where I leave you with some of my favorites.

  • My favorite OVERALL play on the slate: Kyrie Irving
  • My favorite CASH play on the slate: Nikola Jokic
  • My favorite GPP play on the slate: Aaron Gordon
  • My favorite VALUE play: Anthony Black


Download Our Free News & Alerts Mobile App

Like what you see? Download our updated fantasy basketball mobile app for iPhone and Android with 24x7 player news, injury alerts, lineup notifications & DFS articles. All free!

NBA DFS News and Injury Alerts

More DFS Lineup Picks and Analysis




POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Articles & Tools
Import Your Leagues
Daily Stats & Leaders
All Pitcher Matchups
Compare Any Players
Compare Any Players
Rookies & Call-Ups
24x7 News and Alerts

REAL-TIME FANTASY NEWS

Ryan Blaney

One of the Leading DFS Contenders, but Might Be Slightly Overpriced
Ross Chastain

Has Less DFS Value than Usual Since He Qualified Better
Joey Logano

Penske Putting More Emphasis on Non-Playoff Tracks This Year, so Joey Logano Should Run Better at Michigan
Ricky Stenhouse Jr

Likely to Regress to the Mean at Michigan
Carson Hocevar

After Back-to-Back Top Five Runs, Carson Hocevar Could Easily Lead Today
Austin Dillon

Richard Childress Racing's Decline in Intermediate Speed Will Likely Override Austin Dillon's Solid Record
Daniel Suarez

Will Likely Need a Strategy Play to Contend at Michigan
Josh Berry

It's Unclear Whether Josh Berry's 1.5-Mile Oval Speed Will Transfer to Michigan, but It Looks Likely
Michael McDowell

Has Weak Michigan Record, but Will Probably Run Better than He Has in the Past
Noah Gragson

Has Little DFS Value, but Probably More than His Teammates
Justin Haley

Too Mediocre to Consider for DFS Play at Michigan
Riley Herbst

Despite 23XI Racing's Speed, Don't Expect Riley Herbst to Contend at Michigan
Cole Custer

Lackluster at Michigan
Trevor Story

has Three Hits, Drives in Five
Julio Rodríguez

Julio Rodriguez Exits With Ankle/Shin Injury After Being Hit by Line Drive
Christopher Morel

Homers Twice in Three-Hit Game
Logan Webb

Fans 10 on Saturday
Jesús Sánchez

Jesus Sanchez Shines in Victory Against Rays
Bryce Elder

Records 12 Strikeouts in No-Decision
Aaron Rodgers

Signs One-Year, $13.65 Million Deal With Steelers
Giancarlo Stanton

Could Begin Rehab Assignment Next Week
Josh Reynolds

Looking Good at OTAs
Will McDonald IV

Adds Weight in the Offseason
Stefon Diggs

Looks Good "Running Routes and Cutting"
Chris Conley

Announces his Retirement
Francisco Lindor

Returning on Saturday
Darius Garland

Available "Under the Right Circumstances"
Zach Edey

to Undergo Surgery, Expected to Miss Start of the Season
Seiya Suzuki

Slugs Two Home Runs in Win Over Tigers
Miami Dolphins

Ben Stille Reuniting with Miami
Chimere Dike

Signed by Tennessee
Dillon Gabriel

Inks Rookie Deal
James Cook

to Miss Mandatory Minicamp?
Tyler Reddick

Has Tire Issue in Practice at Michigan
Ryan Preece

Should Have Good Speed at Michigan
Brad Keselowski

a Core DFS Play at Michigan
Chase Briscoe

Continues to Find Speed in Qualifying, Wins Pole for Michigan
Chris Buescher

Looking for Another Win at Michigan
Christopher Bell

Has Puzzling History at Michigan
Ty Gibbs

a Risky but Cheap DFS Option at Michigan
Erik Jones

Has Sneaky Upside at Michigan
Luther Burden III

Still Missing From Practice
Jaquan Brisker

Feeling Better
Devaughn Vele

Turning Heads During Offseason Workouts
Carlos Correa

Back in Action on Saturday
Bryce Harper

Lands on Injured List
Sam Hauser

Possibly on the Move?
De'Aaron Fox

: "I'll be Ready for Next Year"
Evan Bouchard

Enjoys Three-Point Period In Game 2 Against Panthers
Connor McDavid

Joins Rare Company with Three-Assist Effort
Sam Bennett

Makes NHL History with Another Goal Friday
Seth Jones

Fills Stat Sheet in Game 2 Against Oilers
Anton Lundell

Notches Two Assists in Friday's Win
Brad Marchand

Leads Panthers to Victory in Game 2 Against Oilers
Tee Higgins

Trying to Prevent Injuries
Lamar Jackson

Extension for Lamar Jackson on Ravens Docket
Anthony Volpe

Leaves Early Friday With Elbow Contusion
Gabriel Moreno

Exits Early on Friday With Hand Injury
Tyreek Hill

Won't Catch Passes Until August
Shane Bieber

Shut Down From Throwing Until Next Week
Ryan Mountcastle

Out 8-12 Months With Grade 2 Hamstring Strain
Rome Odunze

Anticipates Big Year 2
Shea Langeliers

A's Place Shea Langeliers on 10-Day Injured List With Oblique Strain
Keilan Robinson

Joins Eagles
Ladd McConkey

Focused on Staying Healthy
Logan O'Connor

to Miss 5-6 Months Following Hip Procedure
Ezequiel Tovar

Rockies Place Ezequiel Tovar on 10-Day Injured List With Oblique Strain
Francisco Lindor

Out Again on Friday With Toe Injury
Tyler Seguin

Nursing a Shoulder Injury
DAL

Pete DeBoer Fired by Stars
Stuart Skinner

Seeks Sixth Consecutive Win Friday
Sergei Bobrovsky

Looks to Return to Winning Ways Friday
A.J. Greer

Remains Out Friday
Corbin Burnes

to Undergo Tommy John Surgery
Bryce Harper

Day-to-Day With Sore Wrist, Not Playing on Friday
Luis Robert Jr.

Returning on Friday
Gardner Minshew II

Throwing at OTAs
Rondale Moore

Active at OTAs
Colston Loveland

Could Return Soon
Sean O'Malley

Set For A Rematch
Merab Dvalishvili

Set For His Second Title Defense
Kayla Harrison

Could Become The New UFC Champion
Julianna Peña

Julianna Pena Set For Co-Main Event
Joe Pyfer

A Favorite At UFC 316
Kelvin Gastelum

Looks To Win Back-To-Back Fights
Mario Bautista

Looks For His Eighth Consecutive Win
Patchy Mix

Makes His UFC Debut
Vicente Luque

An Underdog At UFC 316
Kevin Holland

Set To Open Up UFC 316 Main Card
Alex Caruso

Shines Off the Bench in Game 1
Luguentz Dort

Knocks Down Five Triples in Game 1
Cason Wallace

Moves into the Starting Lineup in Game 1 Loss
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Scores 38 Points in Game 1 Defeat
Obi Toppin

Drops 17 Points in Game 1
Aaron Nesmith

Posts a Double-Double in Pacers Game 1 Victory
Pascal Siakam

Leads the Pacers with 19 Points in Game 1 Win
Tyrese Haliburton

Hits Game-Winning Shot as Pacers Steal Game 1
Karl-Anthony Towns

Undergoes Treatment for Knee, Finger Issues
Kevin Durant

Knicks Reportedly Make an Offer for Kevin Durant
Nicolas Batum

Clippers Expect Nicolas Batum to Return for Next Season
Tyus Jones

Reportedly on Kings Radar
Jeff Green

Wants to Play for Two More Years
Steven Adams

Rockets Desperate to Get Steven Adams Under a New Contract
Fred VanVleet

Likely to Remain in Houston
Nate Schmidt

Logs Pair of Helpers Wednesday
Carter Verhaeghe

Registers Two Assists In Game 1 Loss Against Oilers
Sam Bennett

Establishes New Franchise Record with 12 Postseason Goals
Kasperi Kapanen

Stays Productive in Finals Opener
Connor McDavid

Records Two Assists in Wednesday's Win
Leon Draisaitl

Scores Twice in Game 1 Win Against Panthers
Kristaps Porzingis

to be Moved This Offseason?
Phoenix Suns

Jordan Ott Named Suns Head Coach
Nikita Kucherov

Takes Home Second Ted Lindsay Award
Derek Forbort

Sticking with Canucks for One More Year
Noah Cates

Lands Four-Year, $16 Million Extension
Rico Hoey

a Decent Dark-Horse Option at TPC Toronto
Harry Hall

a Decent Option at TPC Toronto
Beau Hossler

Not Appealing Ahead of RBC Canadian Open
Taylor Pendrith

Could See Success at RBC Canadian Open
Ryan Fox

a Solid Option at TPC Toronto
Mackenzie Hughes

is a Risky Option at TPC Toronto
Eric Cole

Not A Great Option For RBC Canadian Open
Rasmus Hojgaard

a Volatile Option at TPC Toronto
Quade Cummins

Hard to Trust at RBC Canadian Open
PGA

Matti Schmid a High-Risk, High-Reward Play at TPC Toronto
Jake Knapp

a Boom-or-Bust Option at RBC Canadian Open
Doug Ghim

a Sneaky Value Play at RBC Canadian Open
Gary Woodland

a Solid Value Play at RBC Canadian Open
Rory McIlroy

Eyes Third RBC Canadian Open Title
Wyndham Clark

Hoping to Reverse Slide at RBC Canadian Open
Erik Van Rooyen

Erik van Rooyen Continues Rocky 2025 Campaign
Sahith Theegala

Trying to Find Positives in 2025
Justin Rose

Enjoying Career Renaissance at 44
John Pak

Striving to Improve on PGA Tour
Kurt Kitayama

Roller-Coaster Season to Continue in Canada
Max Homa

Motivated for RBC Canadian Open
Ludovit Klein

Outclassed At UFC Vegas 107
Mateusz Gamrot

Bounces Back In The Win Column
Ramiz Brahimaj

Wins Back-To-Back Fights
Billy Ray Goff

Gets Submitted
Bruno Lopes

Suffers His First UFC Loss
Dustin Jacoby

Scores First-Round Knockout
Ketlen Vieira

Dominates at UFC Vegas 107
Macy Chiasson

Dominated At UFC Vegas 107
Duško Todorović

Dusko Todorovic Drops Three Fights in a Row
Zachary Reese

Gets Back In The Win Column
RANKINGS
C
1B
2B
3B
SS
OF
SP
RP

RANKINGS

QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF