Fantasy basketball picks and betting tips for Thursday's NBA slate

Injury updates and analysis

Anthony Davis (foot) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Golden State Warriors. Davis has been dealing with a foot injury for the past few weeks, and his status is up in the air. If he's unable to play, it would be a big blow to the Lakers, as he's their leading scorer and rebounder. Montrezl Harrell could be in line for a big night if Davis is out.

James Harden (hamstring) is listed as probable for Thursday's game against the Phoenix Suns. Harden has been dealing with a hamstring injury for the past few weeks, but he's expected to play on Thursday. He's been playing well lately, so he's a good option to have in your lineup.

Picks and analysis

Point guard: Lonzo Ball (New Orleans Pelicans) is a good value pick on Thursday. He's averaging 14.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game this season, and he's coming off a triple-double in his last game. He's a good all-around player who can contribute in multiple categories.

Shooting guard: Buddy Hield (Sacramento Kings) is a good scoring option on Thursday. He's averaging 19.8 points per game this season, and he's coming off a 30-point performance in his last game. He's a good shooter who can also create his own shot.

Small forward: LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers) is a good all-around option on Thursday. He's averaging 29.1 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game this season, and he's coming off a triple-double in his last game. He's a good player to have in your lineup, regardless of your need.

Power forward: Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans) is a good scoring option on Thursday. He's averaging 26.4 points per game this season, and he's coming off a 30-point performance in his last game. He's a good athlete who can score in a variety of ways.

Center: Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers) is a good all-around option on Thursday. He's averaging 29.9 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game this season, and he's coming off a 30-point performance in his last game. He's a good player to have in your lineup, regardless of your need.

Betting tips

The Lakers are a good bet to win on Thursday. They're playing at home, and they're facing a Warriors team that is without Stephen Curry. The Lakers are a good team, and they should be able to win this game.

The Pelicans are a good bet to cover the spread on Thursday. They're playing at home, and they're facing a Suns team that is without Devin Booker. The Pelicans are a good team, and they should be able to keep this game close.