The Portland Trail Blazers wrapped up the 2024-25 NBA season with a 36-46 record, finishing 12th in the Western Conference. Despite low expectations, the team ignited hopes of a Play-In spot with a winning streak before the trade deadline, but ultimately fell short. The front office opted not to trade any veterans, focusing instead on player development. Deni Avdija shone as a fantasy standout, averaging 16.9 points and 7.3 rebounds, while Toumani Camara emerged as a valuable asset with solid defensive and offensive contributions.

However, Jerami Grant's disappointing performance raised concerns, especially as younger players began to emerge. Deandre Ayton faced injury issues, limiting his impact, while Anfernee Simons showcased better availability this season. With the offseason approaching, the future roster dynamics remain uncertain as the Blazers continue their rebuild.

Mike Budenholzer's tenure as head coach of the Phoenix Suns has ended after just one season, following a disappointing 36-46 campaign that culminated in a missed playoff berth. Owner Mat Ishbia labeled his hiring as a mistake, acknowledging that Budenholzer's hard-nosed coaching style did not resonate well with the team. This was particularly evident in his relationships with players like Jusuf Nurkic, who expressed a lack of communication with the coach during the season.

Analysts, including Eddie Johnson, noted that Budenholzer's old-school approach might work for some players, but it requires a balance of assertiveness and empathy that he seemingly failed to provide. His demanding style did not sit well with seasoned veterans like Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, leading to a lack of trust in the locker room. The friction between Budenholzer and the team's stars, highlighted by reported disagreements, ultimately sealed his fate in Phoenix.

Drafting in fantasy basketball can be a hit-or-miss experience, and this season has been no different. Joel Embiid's repeated injury woes culminated in only 19 games played, leading him to be a significant disappointment in the first round. LaMelo Ball failed to meet expectations as well, hindered by inefficiencies that left him ranking 55th in 9-cat leagues.

In the third round, Lauri Markkanen struggled to maintain his prior scoring and rebounding levels due to the dysfunction within the Jazz organization. Meanwhile, Immanuel Quickley, taken in the fourth round, couldn't contribute effectively as anticipated, and Brandon Ingram's unfortunate severe ankle sprain kept him sidelined for months. Jrue Holiday's decline continued into round six while Jusuf Nurkic plummeted in value after failing to secure a starting role. Terry Rozier and Alex Caruso were both major letdowns, and Marcus Smart's injury risks didn't help his new role in Washington.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are shaking things up as they face the Portland Trail Blazers with a completely new starting lineup due to resting key players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. This opens up intriguing opportunities for Thunder reserves in NBA DFS contests. With Aaron Wiggins averaging 17.8 points off the bench since February, he could become a key value pick. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks are also affected by an injury to Jalen Brunson, which may lead to other players stepping up for DFS consideration.

On the advice of DFS expert Mike McClure, top picks for Friday include Toronto Raptors’ Scottie Barnes, who has shown strong performances recently, averaging 19.3 points and 7.9 rebounds over his last eight games. Facing the Utah Jazz, whose defense ranks poorly, Barnes is primed for a breakout game. Another option is Charlotte Hornets’ Jusuf Nurkic, who could shine in the absence of Mark Williams. With the current injury landscape, value plays are crucial for crafting winning lineups.