NBA Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-05-24

Welcome back to your weekly DFS Winning Edge, brought to you by SportsPulse.com! As your top DFS analyst, I'm here to cut through the noise and give you the actionable picks you need to dominate DraftKings and FanDuel. Let's dive into the upcoming slate, fresh off the Oklahoma City Thunder's dominant 123-108 win over the San Antonio Spurs, a game that highlighted both elite fantasy production and some concerning trends.

Top 3 Players to START This Week

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder): SGA is simply matchup-proof. His recent 32-point, 6-assist, 5-steal performance against the Spurs was just another day at the office, showcasing his elite all-around fantasy game. With a league-leading usage rate and a knack for getting to the line, SGA provides an incredibly high floor and ceiling. Don't overthink it; plug him in. 2. Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic): Banchero has been on an absolute tear, averaging over 25 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists in his last five games. He's the clear offensive engine for the Magic, consistently delivering strong stat lines across multiple categories. His increased efficiency and expanded playmaking role make him a must-start, especially against defenses that struggle with versatile forwards. 3. Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers): Back from injury and looking like his old self, Haliburton is a DFS cheat code. In his last two games, he's dished out a combined 25 assists while maintaining solid scoring. His ability to rack up double-digit assists almost single-handedly boosts his fantasy value, making him an elite play in any format, particularly against up-tempo teams.

1. Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs): While Wemby's talent is undeniable, his DFS consistency remains volatile. In the recent loss to OKC, he posted 19 points and 5 blocks but shot a poor 5-of-16 from the field. His minutes are often managed, and his efficiency can fluctuate wildly. At his premium salary, the risk of a sub-par shooting night or limited minutes makes him a dangerous play that can sink your lineup. 2. Jalen Green (Houston Rockets): Green's scoring can be enticing, but his inconsistency is a DFS nightmare. He frequently struggles with efficiency, relying heavily on volume to produce. Against tougher defensive matchups, his scoring can plummet, and he offers little in terms of supplementary stats. There are more reliable options at his price point.

Two Value/Bargain Plays Under Salary Cap

1. Precious Achiuwa (New York Knicks):

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