The Washington Wizards are prioritizing development, giving ample playing time to their younger roster, which has started to yield results for fantasy managers. Recently, Bub Carrington and AJ Johnson both scored 19 points against the Sacramento Kings, showcasing their scoring capabilities. Carrington has been particularly impressive, nearly breaking into the top 75 fantasy players over the last week, while Tristan Vukcevic provided a solid contribution with 17 points and 8 rebounds. As the Wizards continue to rely on youth, players like Justin Champagnie also become relevant in fantasy discussions.

Meanwhile, Tari Eason took advantage of Fred VanVleet's absence for the Houston Rockets, putting up a notable line in a blowout win. Isaiah Collier of the Utah Jazz also had a standout game despite a loss, demonstrating his potential as he maintains a starting role. Jose Alvarado's value has risen with CJ McCollum sidelined, while Davion Mitchell and Pelle Larsson also provided solid numbers for their teams. As the season draws to a close, these players are shaping up to be key contributors for fantasy teams in need of late-season boosts.

Brooklyn Nets players have expressed strong opposition to the idea of tanking, a strategy that some fans support in hopes of securing better draft picks. Forward Cam Johnson remarked that fans who wish for their team to lose aren't true supporters, as players are focused on winning every game. This sentiment is echoed by Toronto Raptors guard Garrett Temple, who criticized the practice of tanking and emphasized the competitive nature of players. The ongoing debate highlights a significant divide between fans, who may prioritize long-term success, and players, who are driven by a commitment to compete.

The NBA season has seen increased scrutiny over the issue of tanking, especially as teams look to rebuild. With the league's recent changes to flatten the odds for teams with the worst records, the hope is to discourage the practice. However, the fundamental conflict remains: players' desire to win clashes with fans' desire for a better future through high draft picks.

The Philadelphia 76ers continued their struggles with a 105-91 defeat to the New York Knicks, marking their ninth consecutive loss. The Knicks, led by OG Anunoby's 27 points and contributions from Landry Shamet, showcased a balanced attack, including 12 three-pointers against the Sixers' six. Quentin Grimes shined for Philadelphia with 26 points, but the team's turnover issues were evident, particularly during a shaky third quarter where they appeared to rally but ultimately fell short.

Head coach Nick Nurse experimented with Grimes at point guard, which resulted in mixed results. Although he recorded five assists, Grimes struggled with turnovers, prompting Nurse to switch to Jared Butler in the second half. The Sixers, facing expectations of competing for a championship this season, are now looking to build experience with younger players like Justin Edwards and Lonnie Walker IV. Walker is particularly focusing on expanding his playmaking abilities, which could be crucial as the team prepares for a more competitive future.

Anthony Davis is poised to make his return to the Dallas Mavericks lineup during their upcoming Eastern road trip, as reported by Marc Stein. After spending time with the Mavericks' G League team to ramp up his conditioning, Davis has been recalled to the NBA squad. The Mavs kick off a four-game trip, facing off against the Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks, before concluding with matches against the Orlando Magic and Chicago Bulls.

Sidelined since February 8 due to a left adductor strain, Davis's eagerness to rejoin the Mavericks comes as the team fights for a play-in spot in the Western Conference playoffs. Currently tied with the Phoenix Suns for the 10th seed, the Mavericks are benefiting from Davis's strong performance this season, where he averaged 25.7 points and 12 rebounds over the limited games he played. Despite initial discussions about potentially shutting him down for the season, Davis's push to return reflects his determination to help the team secure a playoff berth.

With a small five-game slate ahead, today's NBA DFS strategy focuses on carefully selecting players who can maximize points, especially amidst a turbulent tanking season where teams like the Raptors and Hornets add volatility to lineups. Key players to monitor include LaMelo Ball, Tyrese Haliburton, and Zach LaVine, whose statuses could significantly impact their teams' performances. Injury reports are crucial as the slate leads up to lineup locks at 7:00 p.m. EDT.

In this DFS landscape, high-performing core picks like Damian Lillard, Mikal Bridges, and Jonas Valanciunas stand out. Lillard, facing off against the Lakers, is coming off impressive returns, while Bridges is seizing opportunities due to teammate injuries. Valanciunas has a favorable matchup against a depleted Bulls team, promising a strong return. Value picks like Keon Johnson and Orlando Robinson also offer intriguing budget options for players looking to optimize their salary cap.