Fantasy basketball picks and betting tips for Thursday - ESPN

The NBA Cup is a wrap, and the Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, emerged as champions. We shift gears back to the regular season, and Thursday brings a massive 13-game slate. Twenty-six teams are in action. Talk about options!

The matchup I'm most excited about? The New York Knicks visiting the Minnesota Timberwolves. Both teams return to action after long breaks, and there's an added layer of drama with Karl-Anthony Towns facing the Timberwolves, the team that traded him just days before training camp. It's a must-watch.

There are other intriguing games worth breaking down from a fantasy and betting perspective. There's a lot to unpack, so let's get to it.

Zach Edey, C, Memphis Grizzlies (available in 52.6% of ESPN leagues)

Edey missed 12 games due to an ankle injury but returned to face the Lakers on Sunday and finished with 37 fantasy points in 24 minutes. The rookie has averaged 11.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG and 1.0 BPG in 20.4 minutes. That paints a statistical picture of what you can expect from Edey against a Golden State Warriors team that has given up some big performances to centers.

Ayo Dosunmu, SG, Chicago Bulls (52.4% available)

Dosunmu has played very well as a starter for the Bulls over the last 11 games, averaging 15.7 PPG and 5.5 APG. Dosunmu also contributes blocks and steals, which adds to his streaming appeal. With Josh Giddey questionable with an ankle injury, Dosunmu could see even more minutes against the Boston Celtics on Thursday.

Kevin Porter Jr., PG/SG, LA Clippers (94.5%)

Porter has been thriving off the bench for the Clippers and has posted at least 28 fantasy points in three straight games. With Terance Mann sidelined by a fractured finger, Porter should keep rolling