It’s December 15th, and after the thrill of in-season tournament play, the kickoff to trade season, and some chaotic fantasy weeks, it feels great to settle into a slate like this—a refreshing chance to reset and refocus. Tonight’s slate is brimming with opportunities to get creative, make bold decisions, and enjoy the pure fun of seeing your calculated risks play out.
DFS is as much about the journey as it is about the wins. Sure, we all want to dominate the money line, but there’s something uniquely satisfying about getting a call right if it’s not a big hit yet. It’s about trusting yourself, embracing the process, and learning to fish. That’s where the magic begins: building your confidence in the data and your instincts for the long game. Tonight, with some heavy Washington and Boston action, offers the perfect setup for both entertainment and strategic growth.
Our FantasyPros team is here to ensure you have everything you need to navigate tonight’s challenges. Tap into the expertise of Nick Rodriguez (@NickIsInNet), Ryan Coleman (@ryancoleman_98), and Daniel E. Dobish (@danieledobish), whose insights will elevate your game and sharpen your approach.
So, let’s lock in, lean into the chaos, and craft lineups that don’t just compete but dominate. Game on!
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: $9,700
- FanDuel: $9,100
Fantasy Impact and Category Strengths
Aye, it’s all love. With everything going on with this team, it’s not our fault we missed this point, but here is my gift to us so we can remember. Booker is a walking highlight reel poised to remind everyone that the Suns’ potential is sky-high when healthy and that he is a “cheat-code” level play.
While other hot teams and players are dominating the buzz, Booker remains the embodiment of consistent greatness- a silent giant whose game speaks louder than words. Averaging 25.3 points per game alongside 6.5 assists and 3.8 rebounds, he provides multi-categorical value that’s tailor-made for DFS contests. Against a Portland squad struggling defensively, Booker’s skillset is poised to shine. His ability to take over games makes him not just a solid DFS play but a potential slate breaker.
Recommendation and Strategy
His price point is way too cheap not to have him in your lineups. Not only is he an elite talent, but he’s also in a phenomenal matchup against a Portland team that is going to make it difficult for the Suns not to try. Durant is back, and maybe that’s why his price point has taken a hit…but listen, Booker is going to eat. How much? It doesn’t matter-for $9,100, I’m putting him everywhere like Old Bay seasoning. While his at-home splits, especially in categories like steals and rebounds, dip slightly, this game could be the start of a series of jaw-dropping performances Booker is known for. Lock him in and let him cook.
Core Play Considerations
- DraftKings: $8,700 (<– NGL these price points are Wild and Beyond Me (Haha Davis Voice))
- FanDuel: $9,000
- DraftKings: $8,500
- FanDuel: $8,500
NBA DFS Cash Game Targets
Kristaps Porzingis (PF, C – BOS)
- DraftKings: $7,500
- FanDuel: $8,200
Fantasy Impact and Category Strengths
Porzingis is thriving in his role with the Celtics, proving to be an essential cog in a well-oiled machine. Averaging 20.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game, Porzingis is a versatile asset delivering consistent value across multiple categories. His career may have seen its share of ups and downs, but this season, he’s showcasing why he belongs among the league’s elite. A matchup against the Wizards, who rank at the bottom in multiple defensive metrics, sets the stage for Porzingis to shine and remind us of his importance to Boston’s success.
Recommendation and Strategy
A matchup against the Wizards can feel like a free pass, but let’s not overlook the nuance here. Washington, while struggling defensively, can flip the switch on any given night, making this a potentially high-energy and exciting game. The Wizards are in a weird space where they pick and choose when to show up, and tonight could very well be one of those nights. This is an ideal setting for someone like Porzingis to thrive, especially with his consistency and ability to shine in chaotic or competitive environments.
At $7,500 on DraftKings, Porzingis provides elite value, blending a stable floor with a high ceiling. Whether this game turns into a blowout or a nail-biter, Porzingis has the skill set to produce big. His multi-categorical impact and natural ability to exploit weak defenses make him a must-consider play. Pairing his relatively modest price with the potential for a massive performance makes him one of the most appealing plays on the slate. Lock him in and let his consistency anchor your lineup.
Cash Game Target Considerations
- DraftKings: $9,700
- FanDuel: $9,100
- DraftKings: $8,700
- FanDuel: $9,000
- DraftKings: $5,700
- FanDuel: $6,000
NBA DFS GPP Targets
- DraftKings: $11,500
- FanDuel: $11,600
Fantasy Impact and Category Strengths
Doncic is seemingly entering his signature mid-season groove, where he elevates his game to MVP-caliber levels. Averaging an impressive 28.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, 7.9 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, Luka is a statistical juggernaut capable of dominating any matchup. Against a Warriors team that ranks poorly in rebounding and blocks, Luka’s ability to exploit weaknesses across categories makes him a nightmare for opponents and a dream for fantasy managers.
Recommendation and Strategy
Luka is in a prime position to break the slate and just might be a must-play in all formats on each slate he is on for the duration of the season, barring any injuries or rest schedules made by the coaching staff. A date with the Warriors offers drama, a stage, and a reason for Luka to dominate and actually play at his best, which is always good. He is expensive and wildly talented, and the matchup is not ideal on paper. And that is just what we want. Lock him in and have fun, especially with so many value plays on this slate. You can easily fit him in, as well as some other big names as well. Also, what better way to rebound from a loss against a Western Conference rival than to take down another one?
GPP Target Considerations
- DraftKings: $5,000
- FanDuel: $4,300
Bilal Coulibaly (SF, SG – WAS)
- DraftKings: $5,200
- FanDuel: $6,000
- DraftKings: $4,800
- FanDuel: $5,800
- DraftKings: $5,500
- FanDuel: $5,900
NBA DFS Value Plays
- DraftKings: $7,300
- FanDuel: $7,800
Fantasy Impact and Category Strengths
Jaylen “Aqua King” Brown is playing some of the best basketball of his career, and it feels like he’s just scratching the surface. A true multi-categorical threat, Brown is becoming increasingly indispensable for the Celtics, serving as both a playmaker and a spark plug.
Averaging 24.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, he’s a reliable contributor across the board. The Celtics are rolling, and Brown’s ability to influence games through his versatility, scoring prowess, and defensive grit makes him a high-value play. While Brown’s shooting efficiency dips slightly on the road, the pace of this game and the Celtics’ ability to dominate the Wizards’ vulnerabilities could lead to some explosive results. Lock him in, and let’s ride.
Recommendation and Strategy
A matchup with the Wizards often feels like a gift when you spot it on the schedule. But don’t be fooled—this team, despite their lackluster record and defensive inefficiencies, has a knack for surprising us on any given night. They might not look great on paper, but the Wizards have enough talent to make this game far more competitive than expected. Tonight’s fast-paced environment offers Jaylen Brown the perfect opportunity to capitalize on Washington’s defensive struggles while showcasing his versatility and offensive prowess.
At $8,500, Brown is sitting at a value sweet spot. He offers a high floor thanks to his ability to contribute across multiple categories, and his ceiling could explode in what might be an unexpectedly entertaining game. This is a perfect opportunity to leverage Brown’s consistency while also giving yourself a shot at a standout performance if Washington decides to push the pace and make things interesting. Lock him in and enjoy the ride.
Value Play Considerations
Jaden McDaniels (SF, PF – MIN)
Primary Format(s): GPPs
Primary Appeal(s): Price, Production Potential, Contrarian
- DraftKings: $4,200
- FanDuel: $4,700
Primary Format(s): GPPs
Primary Appeal(s): Price, Production Potential, Contrarian
- DraftKings: $4,300
- FanDuel: $4,700
Primary Format(s): GPPs, Cash
Primary Appeal(s): Production Potential, Ownership
- DraftKings: $5,100
- FanDuel: $5,600
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