The 2025 NBA playoffs have concluded their first round, setting the stage for an exhilarating conference semifinal stage. The Denver Nuggets are gearing up to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in an anticipated Game 1 matchup featuring two MVP frontrunners: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. The Thunder are favored by 9.5 points with an over/under of 225.5, suggesting a high-scoring affair is on the horizon.

Expert Jimmie Kaylor has made five bold picks for the matchup, highlighting Denver’s championship experience and projecting them to keep the game close. He anticipates Michael Porter Jr. to score over 13 points, benefiting from a favorable matchup. Similarly, Jalen Williams of Oklahoma City is projected to surpass 18 points, while Jokic is expected to record a triple-double, continuing his impressive postseason form. The synergy between offensive prowess and playoff intensity promises fans an electric Game 1.

The 2025 NBA Draft landscape is heating up as the Final Four approaches, showcasing elite prospects like Cooper Flagg from Duke, who has established himself as a multifaceted forward. His potential as a cornerstone player for the Utah Jazz is highlighted by his impressive skill set that complements existing talents like Lauri Markkanen.

The Washington Wizards are eyeing Dylan Harper, a combo guard from Rutgers, to address their point guard needs. His lineage adds to the intrigue, as his father was a notable NBA player. Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets may opt for Ace Bailey, another Rutgers standout, to bolster their scoring options alongside LaMelo Ball.

Several other prospects are making waves, including VJ Edgecombe of Baylor, Khaman Maluach from Duke, and Derik Queen of Maryland. Teams like the New Orleans Pelicans and Philadelphia 76ers are looking for impactful additions to their rosters to enhance their playoff aspirations.

This draft will undoubtedly be pivotal for franchises looking to build for the future, especially as talents like Isaiah Collier and Keyonte George are also in the mix. The upcoming selections will significantly shape the league's competitive landscape.

Tonight's NBA slate features extensive options on FanDuel, especially amidst injury news that impacts key players across multiple teams. The Denver Nuggets will rely heavily on Aaron Gordon as Nikola Jokic is out and Jamal Murray is questionable. Gordon has been thriving lately, hitting the 40-point mark in two consecutive games. Scotty Pippen Jr. steps into a larger role for the Memphis Grizzlies, expected to capitalize on Ja Morant's absence with solid point production. Kawhi Leonard has returned to form for the Los Angeles Clippers, dropping consistent high fantasy points, positioning him as a must-have in lineups against a struggling Memphis defense.

Other strategic picks include Jrue Holiday, who could see increased usage without Jaylen Brown for the Boston Celtics, and Stephon Castle, benefiting from a favorable matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. Tristan Vukcevic stands out as a value pick for the Washington Wizards with potential for high-per-minute returns. As fantasy players finalize their lineups, monitoring late injury updates will be crucial to leverage the best plays.