Get ready for an action-packed Saturday of NBA DFS with a split slate! We have a five-game main slate tipping off at 7:30 PM ET, followed by a three-game night slate at 10:00 PM ET to keep the excitement going. This primer will equip you with the knowledge to navigate both slates effectively, highlighting top plays at each position, valuable sleepers to help you afford the stars and key matchups to exploit. Let’s dive in and analyze the key players and strategies to give you an edge on this exciting Saturday of NBA DFS!
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: $10,500
- FanDuel: $11,200
Victor Wembanyama has a prime opportunity for another big performance tonight against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Timberwolves are playing on zero days rest, which could lead to fatigue and potential struggles on the boards. This bodes well for Wembanyama, as they also rank 23rd in rebounding percentage, providing him ample opportunities to dominate the glass.
Coming off his best game of the year from a fantasy perspective, Wembanyama seems to be finding his rhythm. Expect him to build on that momentum in this matchup, which is projected to be a close contest.
- DraftKings: $9,500
- FanDuel: $9,500
Tyrese Maxey has seized his chance to shine with the 76ers dealing with early-season injuries. He’s been absolutely electric, averaging 31.5 points, 4.5 assists and 3.8 rebounds while taking on a leading role in the offense. Maxey’s explosiveness and scoring prowess have been on full display, making him a must-watch player every time he steps on the court.
What makes Maxey especially appealing for DFS is his sky-high usage rate among players who have logged significant minutes. He currently owns the second-highest usage rate on the slate for players with over 100 minutes, indicating that he’ll be heavily involved in all aspects of the 76ers’ attack. This translates to a massive upside and the potential for a truly monstrous performance.
- DraftKings: $8,300
- FanDuel: $8,500
Devin Booker has picked up right where he left off last season, showcasing his elite scoring ability and consistently filling the stat sheet. Tonight, he faces a Portland Trail Blazers team that ranks 24th in defensive rating, suggesting a favorable matchup for the Suns’ guard. Expect Booker to have plenty of opportunities to attack the basket and light up the scoreboard.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Suns sit Bradley Beal in this game, especially with the Suns projected to win comfortably. Booker would be the primary scoring option alongside Kevin Durant, leading to increased shot attempts and a greater chance for a truly explosive performance.
NBA DFS Cash Game Targets
- DraftKings: $7,300
- FanDuel: $7,900
R.J. Barrett has emerged as a key offensive weapon for the Toronto Raptors with Immanuel Quickley and Scottie Barnes sidelined. He’s stepped up in a major way, showcasing his scoring and playmaking abilities. In his last two games, Barrett has been a fantasy monster, racking up 64 points, 20 assists and nine rebounds. This impressive production highlights his all-around game and importance to the Raptors’ attack.
With a 32.3% usage rate, Barrett is the focal point of the offense, and tonight’s matchup against the Sacramento Kings presents another opportunity for him to shine. The Kings play at a fast pace, ranking ninth in the league, which should create more possessions and scoring opportunities for Barrett.
- DraftKings: $5,500
- FanDuel: $5,600
Grady Dick has quickly emerged as a key offensive weapon for the short-handed Raptors. Over the last two games, he’s commanded the second-highest usage rate on the team at 30%, showcasing his involvement and ability to contribute. This has translated to impressive fantasy performances, with Dick logging 39.5 and 48.3 fantasy points respectively. He’s clearly comfortable with an expanded role and is making the most of his opportunities.
- DraftKings: $6,900
- FanDuel: $7,600
Ivica Zubac has been a dominant force in the paint to start the season, averaging a double-double with 19.2 points and 13.2 rebounds while also chipping in 3 assists per game. He’s been a consistent source of points and rebounds, providing a solid floor. His ability to control the boards makes him an especially appealing option in tonight’s matchup.
The Oklahoma City Thunder rank 25th in rebounding percentage, suggesting that Zubac should have plenty of opportunities to feast on the glass. Furthermore, the Thunder are playing on zero days rest, which could lead to fatigue and further struggles on the boards.
NBA DFS GPP Targets
- DraftKings: $5,900
- FanDuel: $7,000
Andrew Wiggins is set to return to the Warriors lineup tonight after dealing with a back issue to start the year. This is excellent news, as Wiggins should be well-rested and ready to contribute. The time off since Oct. 27 has allowed him to recover and regain his form. With Stephen Curry also out, Wiggins is poised for a usage bump and could very well be the go-to scorer in this matchup.
Through three games this season, Wiggins has averaged 19.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists. He’s a versatile player who can contribute across the board, making him a great play at his price point.
Brandin Podziemski (PG/SG – GSW)
- DraftKings: $5,800
- FanDuel: $6,000
The Warriors backcourt is looking thin tonight with Stephen Curry and De’Anthony Melton expected to be out. This creates a golden opportunity for Brandin Podziemski to step up and continue to showcase his skills. He’s already shown flashes of his potential in recent games, capitalizing on increased playing time.
In his last two outings, Podziemski has logged 34+ minutes and made the most of his expanded role. He’s stuffed the stat sheet with 32 points, 12 assists, 11 rebounds, two steals and two blocks, demonstrating his all-around ability. His usage rate has also climbed to 23.5%, indicating his growing importance in the offense.
NBA DFS Value Plays
- DraftKings: $4,900
- FanDuel: $4,700
Jaylen Wells is poised for another expanded role tonight, with Marcus Smart and Desmond Bane ruled out for the Grizzlies. This backcourt duo also missed Thursday’s contest, and Wells stepped up. He played 36 minutes and logged 16 points and seven rebounds.
- DraftKings: $4,600
- FanDuel: $5,100
Russell Westbrook could be in line for a significant role tonight if Jamal Murray, who has entered concussion protocol, cannot suit up. With Murray potentially sidelined, Westbrook would likely see a bump in minutes and usage, making him an intriguing option. Even in limited action last night (25 minutes), Westbrook produced 24 fantasy points despite a poor shooting performance (1-8 from the field). This speaks to his ability to contribute in other areas, such as assists and rebounds.
If Murray is indeed ruled out, Westbrook becomes a very appealing play, especially against a Utah Jazz team that has shown some defensive vulnerabilities and ranks tenth in pace of play this season.
Julian Strawther (SG/SF – DEN)
- DraftKings: $3,600
- FanDuel: $3,800
Julian Strawther is a name to monitor closely tonight, especially with Jamal Murray’s status uncertain due to concussion protocol. Strawther stepped into Murray’s role last night and could see an increase in minutes if Murray is sidelined. This presents a valuable opportunity for Strawther to showcase his skills and contribute to the Nuggets’ offense.
He’s off to a solid start in his rookie campaign, displaying confidence and a well-rounded game. Over the last three games, Strawther has seen 20+ minutes in two of them, indicating a growing role and increased trust from the coaching staff.
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