Yesterday’s massive 13-game slate offered an abundance of options; however, today requires a more focused approach with only three games on tap. With fewer games comes increased importance on identifying the right matchups and value plays.
This primer will break down the key matchups, highlight the top plays at each position, and uncover some valuable sleepers who can help you afford the stars. Let’s dive in and analyze the players that will give you an edge tonight.
View the best player prop bets for tonight’s slate with our NBA Prop Bet Cheat Sheet
NBA DraftKings & FanDuel DFS Primer
NBA DFS Core Plays
- DraftKings: $10,300
- FanDuel: $9,500
Trae Young finds himself in a dream matchup tonight against the Chicago Bulls, which play at the fastest pace in the league. Young thrives in up-tempo games, where his elite playmaking and scoring abilities are fully displayed. He’s a master of pushing the pace and creating opportunities for himself and his teammates. Expect fireworks in this matchup, as Young should have plenty of chances to rack up points and assists.
Through 10 games this season, Young is averaging a stellar 24.9 points, 11.1 assists, 4.3 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. He’s a constant threat to fill the stat sheet and has the potential to erupt for a massive performance on any given night. With his high ceiling and a matchup that perfectly suits his style, Young is arguably the top option on tonight’s slate.
- DraftKings: $7,000
- FanDuel: $7,600
Jarrett Allen is primed for a dominant performance against his former team. The Brooklyn Nets have struggled against opposing centers this season, allowing the fourth-most fantasy points to the position. This glaring weakness plays right into Allen’s strengths as a powerful presence in the paint. He should have his way with the Nets’ interior defense, scoring at will and cleaning up on the glass.
Allen has been a force to be reckoned with this season, averaging 14.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. He’s a double-double machine with the ability to contribute defensively as well. Facing his former team could provide extra motivation, leading to an even more aggressive and impactful performance.
- DraftKings: $8,800
- FanDuel: $8,200
RJ Barrett has been a usage monster for the Toronto Raptors, commanding over a 33% usage rate in his last four games. He’s clearly shaken off any lingering effects from his shoulder injury, averaging an impressive 25.7 points, 7 assists, and 5.3 rebounds this season. Barrett has stepped up as Toronto’s primary scorer and playmaker, and his aggressive style should continue to translate into fantasy success.
While the Clippers have been solid defensively this year, Barrett should still see plenty of opportunities to contribute. This game is projected to be the second-highest-scoring game of the night.
NBA DFS Cash Game Targets
- DraftKings: $5,700
- FanDuel: $5,600
Dyson Daniels is coming off a spectacular performance showcasing his defensive prowess and offensive potential. He erupted for 18 points and an incredible seven steals, demonstrating his ability to make a significant impact on both ends of the floor. Expect him to ride this wave of momentum into tonight’s matchup against the Chicago Bulls, which rank 20th in defensive efficiency. This vulnerability should allow Daniels to attack the basket, create scoring opportunities, and continue his disruptive defensive play.
With the Hawks dealing with multiple injuries, Daniels has stepped into a significant role, logging 35+ minutes in his last two games. This trend should continue tonight, providing him with ample opportunity to contribute across multiple categories.
- DraftKings: $8,300
- FanDuel: $8,000
Nikola Vucevic is a perennial fantasy stalwart, and this season is no exception. He consistently delivers solid production across the board, providing a high floor with the potential for big games. Vucevic is a walking double-double, and his ability to contribute in points, rebounds, and assists makes him a valuable asset in DFS. Tonight’s matchup against the Atlanta Hawks presents a favorable opportunity for him to shine.
The Hawks play at the third-fastest pace in the league, which should translate to more possessions and increased rebounding opportunities for Vucevic. Historically, he’s thrived against Atlanta on the boards, averaging 12.3 rebounds in three games against them last year. He also had two games with 24 points against the Hawks last season, showcasing his scoring upside.
NBA DFS GPP Targets
- DraftKings: $5,400
- FanDuel: $5,400
Zaccharie Risacher, the 19-year-old rookie, has experienced the expected ups and downs of adjusting to the NBA. However, he flashed his immense potential on Nov. 6 with a breakout performance, racking up 33 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals. This glimpse of his ceiling is a reminder of why the Hawks are so high on him, and tonight’s matchup could be another chance for him to shine.
Risacher finds himself in a favorable position against the Chicago Bulls, which have struggled defensively this season. They’ve allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing small forwards, suggesting a vulnerability that Risacher can exploit. With his scoring ability and all-around potential, he has the opportunity to deliver another strong performance.
- DraftKings: $7,200
- FanDuel: $6,300
Norman Powell has been a revelation this season, exceeding all expectations and emerging as a legitimate scoring threat for the Los Angeles Clippers. While he averaged just 12.5 points per game throughout his career, that number has skyrocketed to an impressive 25.7 points per game through his first nine games of the new campaign. He’s been incredibly efficient, shooting 49.4% from beyond the arc, and has clearly taken his game to another level.
Tonight, Powell faces his former team, the Toronto Raptors, wh0 currently ranks 29th in defensive rating. This porous defense should provide ample opportunity for Powell to continue his hot streak and exploit their weaknesses.
NBA DFS Value Plays
- DraftKings: $3,900
- FanDuel: $3,800
With Ben Simmons ruled out for the Brooklyn Nets, this opens up valuable minutes on the wing, and Ziaire Williams should see an increased role in the rotation. He’s coming off a solid performance last night, posting 9 points and 12 rebounds, showcasing his ability to contribute even in limited minutes. This recent showing, coupled with Simmons’ absence, could lead to a significant opportunity for Williams.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are heavy favorites in this matchup, and with the Nets playing on zero days rest, there’s a good chance we see more run from the Nets’ bench players. This scenario further strengthens Williams’ case for increased playing time. He has a chance to prove himself and potentially carve out a larger role in the rotation.
Derrick Jones Jr. (SF/PF – LAC)
- DraftKings: $4,500
- FanDuel: $4,400
Derrick Jones Jr. is a human highlight reel, electrifying crowds with his incredible athleticism and high-flying dunks. But he’s not just flash; Jones Jr. is making a significant impact for the Los Angeles Clippers this season. Averaging 27.4 minutes per game, he’s seizing his opportunity and contributing in a variety of ways. He’s currently shooting a career-best 44.1% from beyond the arc and averaging a career-high 11 points per game, showcasing his improved offensive skillset.
Tonight, Jones Jr. faces the Toronto Raptors, which rank sixth in pace of play. This fast-paced environment should suit his energetic style perfectly, allowing him to thrive in transition and attack the basket.
Subscribe: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeart | Castbox | Amazon Music | Podcast Addict | TuneIn
