This article is part of our Yahoo DFS Basketball series.
After a fairly quiet Thursday, we have 10 games to enjoy in the NBA tonight. One of the biggest matchups figures to be the Lakers hosting the Suns. Among the more interesting storylines will be the Sixers hosting the Nets with each team missing a star player, but neither because due to injury. The Celtics will look to bounce back from a double-OT loss to the Knicks when they host the Raptors. Also, the new-look Bulls will try to take advantage of the Pelicans without Zion Williamson (foot). Let's try to help narrow down the DFS field on Yahoo by highlighting some players to consider for your lineups, as well as a few to possibly avoid.
GUARDS
LaMelo Ball, CHA at CLE ($34): After a dominant rookie season, could we see even better production from Ball this season? He sure gave that indication in their opener against the Pacers by posting 31 points, nine rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Ball took 23 shots, which was significantly more than the 13.2 average from last year. Terry Rozier (ankle) was out, which likely led to Ball's increased scoring opportunities. Rozier is questionable for tonight, but Ball still represents an excellent option even if he plays.
Tyrese Maxey, PHI vs. BKN ($14): The Ben Simmons saga drags on. He won't play tonight and it would be surprising if he ever takes the floor again for the Sixers - even if it takes a long time to trade him. Maxey started and played 34 minutes without him Wednesday and produced 20 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Expect him to remain busy in this contest.
Guard to Avoid
Monte Morris, DEN vs. SA ($18): With Jamal Murray (knee) out, Morris is the Nuggets' starting point guard. But he only saw 28 minutes in their opener, which is a trend that could continue because of their depth at the position. He was held to 14.9 Yahoo points, so it might be better to roll with Maxey if you're looking for a guard in this salary range.
FORWARDS
Domantas Sabonis, IND at WAS ($47): Sabonis is coming off of a career season where he averaged 20.3 points, 12.0 rebounds and 6.7 assists. What could he do for an encore? In the Pacers' opener against the Hornets, he dominated with 33 points, 15 rebounds and two assists. The Pacers are depleted with Caris LeVert (back) and T.J. Warren (foot) out, which means Sabonis should continue with even more scoring responsibilities.
Kyle Kuzma, WAS vs. IND ($15): When healthy, the Wizards carry enough depth up front that could make it difficult for Kuzma to earn regular minutes. But right now, they're without Rui Hachimura (conditioning). That left Kuzma to start and play 35 minutes in their first outing against the Raptors. He didn't disappoint by producing a double-double on his way to 34.5 Yahoo points. A similar role is likely on tap for him tonight.
Forward to Avoid
Marvin Bagley III, SAC vs. UTA ($19): Talk about a strange turn of events. Just before the start of the campaign, the Kings announced Bagley would not be a part of their opening night rotation. That's right, he didn't play at all while the likes of Maurice Harkless and Tristan Thompson combined for 41 minutes. It seems like the end result here will be Bagley getting traded, so there's no way you can take a chance on him in DFS right now - especially at this salary.
CENTERS
Christian Wood, HOU vs. OKC ($33): The Rockets were smoked by the Timberwolves in their debut and should be in store for an ugly rebuilding season. On the bright side, Wood posted a nice fantasy line with 16 points, nine rebounds, three assists and a block across 32 minutes. Plenty of court time will likely be coming his way again against a Thunder team that's been deploying Isaiah Roby and Derrick Favors at center, neither of them instilling much fear into the heart of opposing fives.
Montrezl Harrell, WAS vs. IND ($11): Despite Daniel Gafford being named the Wizards' starting center, a significant role remains for Harrell with Thomas Bryant (knee) out until at least December. He played 26 minutes in their first game and finished with 22 points, nine rebounds and one block. The Wizards will likely need his size to combat with Sabonis and Myles Turner, so similar playing time will likely be on the table.
Center to Avoid
Chris Boucher, TOR at BOS ($21): For whatever reason, the Raptors just don't seem comfortable starting Boucher. Last year, he often came off the bench behind Khem Birch. In their first game this season, Scottie Barnes and Precious Achiuwa started over Boucher. Not only did he come off the bench, but he only logged 17 minutes. Considering Boucher's salary doesn't come at much of a discount, he's too risky an option.
