Fantasy basketball and NBA betting cheat sheet for Friday

The ESPN fantasy and betting cheat sheet is your pregame destination for our best intel and data to help you make smart fantasy and wagering decisions. NBA game odds are provided by Caesars Sportsbook and fantasy advice is based on ESPN 10-team leagues.

Jump ahead: https://www.espn.com/fantasy/basketball/story/_/id/33359890/espn-nba-fantasy-betting-cheat-sheet-thursday#Game of the night">Game of the night | Picks and props | Analytics edge

Double Trouble: The Timberwolves opened as one-point favorites over the 76ers, but the spread swung several points to favor Philly upon confirmation of James Harden's debut. The bearded one has been double teamed on 17.3 possessions per game this season, second only to Luka Doncic. Joel Embiid has been double teamed 126 times on post-ups this season, by far the most in the NBA. Given that Harden is the only player in the league that has averaged at least 20 points and 10 assists, a swing at his double-double prop is an interesting path to betting this contest.

Birthday Boy: Fred VanVleet turns 28 years old today and given that he played nine minutes in the All Star Game, it's safe to count on him returning from a one game absence (knee). He's averaged 6.3 assists and 4.6 made 3's in February and should be busy tonight against a Hornets team that ranks second in pace of play.

Fantasy Friendly: Ingredients for big statistical performances are undeniably present in Friday's matchup between the Rockets and Magic in Orlando; Houston ranks first in the league in pace, while Orlando is 10th. The Rockets are last in the league in defensive rating, with Orlando sitting 24th. Given the matchup metrics, Jalen Green's scoring prop (14.5) appears entirely achievable.

Kleber's Case: With Tim