NBA Playoff DFS Betting: Tips & Best Strategies

NBA Playoff DFS Betting: Tips & Best Strategies

The rise in offensive production in the NBA has created a perfect storm for increased popularity of Daily Fantasy Betting. But there are some differences when it comes to betting NBA DFS in the playoffs, so here are six tips to consider when selecting your daily roster during the NBA Playoffs.

  1. Lock In Your Stars

    It’s going to sound obvious but it’s critical: The best and most expensive players produce the most points. We’ll get to finding value soon, but don’t try and get too fancy building your roster. You’re going to need heavy lifters – at least one expensive star – to guarantee you a heavy chunk of points.

    True, the best scorers in the playoffs are going to be rostered on plenty of teams, but there’s a reason for that. You’ll be able to find solid value later, but always start with a heavy hitter. It’ll give you a solid foundation to go find value.

    Plus, all superstars receive a bump in usage – points, assists, etc. – in the playoffs. They’re relied on more heavily, meaning their numbers will only increase.

  2. Value, Value, Value

    You can’t simply grab three superstars and fill out the rest of your roster with bottom-tiered players at the cheapest value. You’ll need to go find players who have been on hot streaks for one reason or another – an increase in minutes, their shot is falling, etc. – but whose price tags haven’t increased, either.

    Paying attention to a player’s recent games and considering if the conditions are the same for them to repeat such success is critical.

    While season-long fantasy numbers are nice to consider, playoff series are different. Usually there’s a key role player – if, for example, a team goes small to match their opponents’ lineup – who see a bump in role and production (and, thus, value) because of the specific series.

    If their price doesn’t change, that player is worth pouncing on.

    Consider how a certain player will be deployed in a series and go from there. You can usually find good information from what coaches say in the lead-up to the series. While they won’t give too much away, sometimes they’ll hint at a certain player’s involvement.

  3. Blowouts Can Backfire

    It might look enticing to see the Warriors hosting a lowly No. 8 seed, or the top seed in the East squaring off against a bottom feeder. Those seem like easy fantasy points, but consider that in this era where rest is more important than ever, blowouts can backfire.

    Teams are more likely to rest their players when they get out to enormous leads, reducing usage, counting stats and fantasy points. This is especially the case early in the postseason given that teams hope to be playing into late June.

    That’s not to say it’s smart to use an advantageous center matchup because the game will be close, but looking for competitive games ensures your players will maximize their minutes and productivity.

  4. Consider Opponent’s Pace, Defense

    Not all opponents are created equal. Not even close. Certain teams play much faster than others, which means fewer possessions for your fantasy players over the course of a 48-minute game. These numbers can range from the mid-90s to the mid-100s.

    Ten possessions mean a lot more (or a lot less) fantasy points that could be the difference in your matchup. Checking out oddsmakers’ over-under point total set for the game will give you an idea of how fast or slow they expect the game to go.

    Plus, possessions become more important in the postseason so there’s going to be fewer of them on a per-game basis. Don’t just pick a player. Pick a matchup.

  5. Pay Attention to Who’s in and Who’s Out

    We’ve put this last, but it might be the most important part of betting daily fantasy sports. Late scratches and game-time decisions can derail a lineup.

    NBA head coaches frequently sit players at random times or rule out players after their pregame warm-ups prior to tipoff. While we don’t need to worry about the dreaded load management – teams manage loads in preparation for the playoffs – there’s still a lot that can happen leading up to the start of a game.

    The good news is the rise of daily fantasy sports has created myriad outlets on social media that update who’s in and who’s out. Make sure you’re up-to-date on the status of all your players until they’ve tipped off.


Recommended Betting Sites

Bell Icon
Affiliate Disclosure: At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. This means that if you visit a website through our link and make a deposit, Gambling.com will receive a commission payment at no extra cost to you. At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. More
  1. 1
    BetVictor Sports
    Established 1946
    More Details
    Long Established UK Bookmaker
    Regular Bet Boosts
    Use Bet Builder to Make Custom Bets
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    33
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    BetVictor is named after founder Victor Chandler (known as the 'Gentleman Bookmaker') and they boast superstar jockey Rachael Blackmore, plus football legends Michael Owen and Harry Redknapp amongst their brand ambassadors and betting experts.
  2. 2
    Sports Interaction Sports
    Established 1997
    More Details
    Big Selection of Live Betting Markets
    Official Partner of NLL
    Competitive Odds on Various Sports and Events
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    20
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    4
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    Sports Interaction is a dual platform offering both sportsbook and casino games. The brand delivers a plethora of options on both sides, offering a smooth experience on all platforms.
  3. 3
    Cobra Sports
    Established 2022
    More Details
    Has One of Canada's Biggest Sports Selections
    Offers the Industry's Most "Combos Boosts"
    Compares Well to Any Bookmaker in Odds
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    20
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    11
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    CobraBet is a reliable online sportsbook with excellent backing (Dama N.V.). It offers an incredible number of markets and promotions, along with very competitive odds.
  4. Regular Bettors Tournaments
    Sport VIP Program
    Ongoing 'Forecasts' Promotion
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    20
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    21
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    TonyBet offers over 1,650 sports betting markets and sports. Aside from being spoilt for choice, bettors can also enjoy difrerent promotions. Plus the platform is available on all operating systems.
  5. Blog with Comprehensive Tutorials on Sports Betting
    Live Streaming is Supported
    In-Play Betting Section with Big Range of Sports
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    Yes
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    30
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Betsafe caters to new and experienced players. Those without experience will find the blog section informative while experienced bettors will appreciate the wide selection of in-play sports and live stream functionality.
  6. 6
    Zet Bet Sports
    Established 2022
    More Details
    Fast & Clean Betting Interface
    Zet Boost' Accumulator Boosts
    Broad Range of Sports & Esports Markets
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    32
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    ZetBet is a new to market betting site that includes an attractive sportsbook with excellent filters to enable you to find your bet quickly and easily.
  7. Huge Selection of Sports Betting Markets
    One of the Oldest Online Sportsbooks
    Exclusive Partnership with Sports Illustrated
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    500BONUS
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    Yes
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    14
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    888 Sportsbook offers a massive selection of sports betting markets and sports to its customers. In an US expansion effort, the brand has teamed up with Sports Illustrated.
  8. Dual Sportsbook & Casino Operator
    Platform with a Clean Design
    Comprehensive Selection of Sports
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    11
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    VIP Casino is a host to amazing selection of casino games. Additionally, those eager to place sports bet will find the brand offering plenty of sports betting options.
  9. 9
    Luckster Sports
    Established 2022
    More Details
    Well Designed & Easy To Use Interface
    ‘Boost Up’ Accumulator Boosts
    Live Betting & Cash-Out Options
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    9
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    Luckster is a dual sportsbook and casino platform with a vaguely Irish theme, including the inevitable leprechaun logo and shamrock imagery.
  10. 10
    Xtreme Win Sport
    Established 2022
    More Details
    Brand New Sportsbook in 2022
    Accepts e-Wallets & Cryptocurrencies
    Bet Builder For Creating Custom Wagers
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    20
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    16
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    More than 700 markets on top sports events & low minimum deposits
  11. Mobile First Betting Interface
    Leo King' Sports Prediction Game
    24/7 Customer Service
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    34
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Leo Vegas Sports is the sportsbook from this multi-award-winning casino operator, with a focus on mobile users - including a sport betting app for Android & iOS Devices.
  12. Nine Tier Loyalty Program
    Direct Cryptocurrency Payments
    Hot Combo Parlay Odds Boosts
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    30
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    Fresh Casino is excellent for cryptocurrency bettors and fans of eSports. 11 different eSport games are available, along with lots of virtual sports. The Fresh free loyalty program provides unique rewards.
  13. 14
    Greatwin Sports
    Established 2022
    More Details
    Regular Bettor Tournaments
    Cashback & Acca Boost Promotions
    Competitive Odds & Extensive Sports Selection
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    30
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    Yes
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    11
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    GreatWin features a polished design that let's its users easily focus on broad selection of available sports. The platform offers competitive odds, but it stands out with ongoing promotions such as acca boosts. Players can also explore the casino section for more fun.
  14. 15
    Snatch Sports
    Established 2021
    More Details
    Best Bonuser of the Year for 2023 by Caziwoo
    6 Different Options for Displaying Odds
    Live Streaming on eSports Events
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    30
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    6
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Snatch Sportsbook provides access to more than 1,000 international soccer betting markets. Players can see detailed sports stats for teams and matches and place bets on both upcoming and ongoing matches.
  15. 17
    PriBet Sports
    Established 2022
    More Details
    Deposit match welcome bonus 100% up to $150
    Excellent sports betting lines for futures
    Asian view sports betting lines
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    6
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Sports bettors can earn up to a $75 free bet with a 10% deposit match bonus each month
  16. 18
    William Hill Sports
    Established 2008
    More Details
    'Sports Betting Operator of the Year' 2020 & 2022
    Official Betting Partner of Tottenham Hotspur FC
    Free to Play 'Free or 4' Predictor Game
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    C500
    Min Deposit
    20
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    32
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    Named after its founder way back in 1934, William Hill is now one of the world's biggest bookmaker brands and operates over 1400 betting shops throughout the UK.
  17. 19
    bwin Sports
    Established 1997
    More Details
    Bookmaker with 20+ years of experience
    High-quality odds on various sports events
    1,000+ Live Sporting Streams offered daily
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    18
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Bwin, live since 2001, is a long-standing, reputable and an award-winning online gaming company, also including live casino and slot games atop its online sports betting offering.
  18. 20
    PowerPlay Sports
    Established 2018
    More Details
    Generous Welcome Offer
    Sport-Specific Promotions
    Comprehensive Selection of Sports
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    27
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    PowerPlay is a host to big selection of sports betting options. Sport-specific promotions are there to reward players with various benefits.
  19. 21
    Zodiac Bet Sports
    Established 2020
    More Details
    Offers over two dozen markets
    Accepts several cryptocurrencies
    Reload bonus opportunities
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    ZB100S
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    11
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Zodiac excels at providing many markets, live betting opportunities, banking options and promotions. It also has a solid reputation in its first few years of operation as one of a host of new Canadian betting sites.
  20. 22
    ComeOn! Sports
    Established 2010
    More Details
    Welcome Offer for Sports Bettors
    Parlay Insurance
    ComeOn! Rewards Loyalty Program
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    30
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    ComeOn! is a popular international brand. It features a platform with clean design that's responsive and easy to use. ComeOn! Rewards make everything more interesting as players can enjoy benefits while betting on sports.
  21. Regular Bettor Tournaments
    Forecast Betting
    Bettor Hall of Fame
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    15
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    13
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    20Bet wants to amaze bettors with several interesting features. Users will find hall of fame and regular tournaments appealing. They'll be able to compete with others to stay at the top.
  22. 24
    Monster Casino Sports
    Established 2017
    More Details
    Dual Sportsbook & Casino Platform
    10% Cashback on Sports Betting Losses
    'Wager Wars' Leaderboard & Cash Prizes
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    17
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    Monster Casino Sportsbook is the new sports betting offering from this long established casino brand, with a small but select selection of sports to bet on.
  23. Tennis Betting Leaderboard
    Big Selection of Popular Sports
    Clean Design for Smooth Navigation
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    32
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    Guts is a great platform where sports betting enthusiasts will find everything they need. Plus, they can play casino games and poker if they like to.
  24. 26
    Casinoly Sports
    Established 2021
    More Details
    Big Selection of Esports Leagues
    All Major Leagues Around the World Covered
    Acca Boost for Higher Profits
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    20
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    Yes
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    11
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    With its unique Ancient Rome theme, Casinoly sets itself apart. The brand is a dual operator offering casino and sportsbook. It features a huge collection of sports betting options.
  25. 27
    Sportaza Sports
    Established 2021
    More Details
    96% Payout Rate On Top Leagues
    Bitcoin And Other Crypto Payments Available
    Higher Odds Than Other Betting Site Options
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    30
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    -
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Unlike other betting companies, Sportaza appeals to a new generation of customer by gamifying its offering. This means every week, the online bookmaker will host challenges and tournaments where bettors earn points to improve their VIP rank.
  26. Broad Coverage of Live Events
    Cute Panda Theme
    Weekly Profit Boost for Sports Betting
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Min Deposit
    10
    Acca Insurance
    Tooltip Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
    No
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    39
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    No
    Royal Panda might be known for it's world-class casino, but the brand also offers a panda themed sportsbook. Players can enjoy profit boosts by placing several bets on a single slip.
  27. 29
    Mr Green Sports
    Established 2008
    More Details