Get ready to feast on a massive 11-game NBA DFS slate tonight! With a plethora of options and game totals ranging from a sky-high 243.5 to a more modest 208.5, there’s something for everyone on this action-packed Saturday. From potential blowouts to nail-biting finishes, tonight’s slate offers a diverse range of game environments to consider when crafting your lineups.
This primer breaks down the key matchups, highlights the top plays at each position and uncovers value plays that can help you afford the stars. Let’s dive in and analyze the players that will give you an edge for Saturday’s slate.
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: $10,900
- FanDuel: $11,600
Victor Wembanyama is coming off a truly spectacular performance. In his last game, he exploded for 42 points, six rebounds, and four blocks while showcasing his incredible offensive arsenal. He’s a unique talent with the ability to score from anywhere on the court, and his recent outburst is a reminder of his sky-high ceiling.
Tonight, he faces the Portland Trail Blazers, a team that has struggled on the defensive end this month. The Trail Blazers own the worst defensive rating in December, making this a dream matchup for Wembanyama. Expect him to be aggressive and exploit their weaknesses, potentially putting up another massive score.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (PF – MIL)
- DraftKings: $11,400
- FanDuel: $12,000
Giannis Antetokounmpo has a history of dominating the Washington Wizards, and tonight’s matchup could be another showcase of his incredible talent. In their previous encounter on November 30, Giannis erupted for 42 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists, demonstrating his ability to take over games and fill the stat sheet. He’s a matchup nightmare for any team, and the Wizards have consistently struggled to contain him.
With Damian Lillard potentially sidelined for the Trail Blazers, Giannis’s usage rate and opportunities to score should increase even further. This makes him an even more appealing option against one of the worst teams in the league.
- DraftKings: $9,100
- FanDuel: $9,100
While the earlier games might overshadow tonight’s matchup between the Phoenix Suns and Detroit Pistons, you should take note of Kevin Durant’s favorable situation. With Devin Booker sidelined, Durant will be the focal point of the Suns’ offense, and he has a history of thriving with increased responsibility. In 14 games without Booker last season, Durant averaged 32.1 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5.4 assists, showcasing his ability to carry the team and fill the stat sheet.
This bodes well for Durant, especially against a Detroit Pistons team that ranks 26th in defensive efficiency this month. The Pistons have struggled to contain opposing scorers, and Durant should have plenty of opportunities to exploit their weaknesses.
NBA DFS Cash Game Targets
Kristaps Porzingis (PF, C – BOS)
- DraftKings: $7,400
- FanDuel: $7,800
Kristaps Porzingis has been a key contributor for the Boston Celtics since returning from injury, providing consistent production and showcasing his versatile skillset. He’s averaging 28.6 minutes per game in December and recently logged a season-high 35.41 minutes, indicating his growing role in the Celtics’ rotation and no longer having a minute restriction. Porzingis is a unique big man who can stretch the floor with his shooting, score in the post and protect the rim with his shot-blocking ability. This well-rounded game has translated to impressive averages of 19.3 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game this month.
Tonight, Porzingis faces the Chicago Bulls, a team that plays at the fifth-fastest pace in the league. This up-tempo environment should benefit Porzingis, who thrives in transition and can take advantage of mismatches.
- DraftKings: $6,600
- FanDuel: $6,900
Anfernee Simons has been a key offensive force for the Portland Trail Blazers, stepping up as a primary scoring option. Over their last four games, he’s led the team in both minutes played and points scored, averaging 23 points per game. Simons is a dynamic guard with a smooth shooting stroke and the ability to create his own shot. He’s also shown improved playmaking skills, averaging 6.5 assists and 2.3 rebounds during this stretch.
Tonight, Simons faces the San Antonio Spurs, a team he’s had success against in the past. In their previous matchup, Simons erupted for 30 points, showcasing his scoring prowess.
De’Andre Hunter (SF, PF – ATL)
- DraftKings: $5,500
- FanDuel: $5,800
De’Andre Hunter has been a reliable scoring option for the Atlanta Hawks this month, showcasing his offensive consistency and ability to put the ball in the basket. He’s averaging an impressive 22 points per game, demonstrating his ability to score from multiple levels. Hunter possesses a smooth jump shot, can attack the basket off the dribble and is a threat in transition.
Tonight, Hunter faces the Memphis Grizzlies, a team that has been playing at the fastest pace in the league this month. This up-tempo environment should benefit Hunter, who thrives in transition and can take advantage of defensive lapses. With more possessions and increased scoring opportunities, Hunter has the potential to deliver another strong performance.
NBA DFS GPP Targets
- DraftKings: $9,300
- FanDuel: $9,400
Trae Young appears to have rediscovered his shooting stroke. In his last two games, he’s shot an efficient 47% from the floor while averaging 29 points and 13 assists. Young is a dynamic scorer and elite playmaker who can take over games when he’s hot. When his shot is falling, his ceiling is as high as any player in the league.
Tonight, Young faces the Memphis Grizzlies, a team that plays at the fastest pace in the league this month. This up-tempo environment should create plenty of opportunities for Young to score, dish out assists and rack up fantasy points.
- DraftKings: $6,700
- FanDuel: $6,700
Deandre Ayton appears to be hitting his stride, providing the Portland Trail Blazers with a consistent presence in the paint. Over his last two games, he’s averaged a dominant 14.5 points and 16 rebounds while also adding 2.5 blocks per game.
Tonight, Ayton faces the San Antonio Spurs, a team he’s had success against in the past. In their matchup on November 7, Ayton delivered a strong performance with 21 points and 10 rebounds. With his recent form and a history of success against the Spurs, Ayton is a solid option with the potential to exceed his value.
- DraftKings: $5,700
- FanDuel: $5,700
Ben Simmons has been the butt of many jokes among NBA fans, making it tough to roster him with all the negativity surrounding his game. However, tonight presents a fantastic opportunity to take advantage of the low expectations and potentially reap the rewards. With no back-to-back games to worry about, Simmons should be fresh and ready to contribute. He’s averaged 31 minutes in his last two outings, showcasing his ability to handle a significant workload.
The matchup against the Utah Jazz further strengthens Simmons’ case. The Jazz have been abysmal defensively, ranking dead last in defensive efficiency over their last four games. This vulnerability should allow Simmons to attack the basket, facilitate for his teammates, and contribute across the board.
NBA DFS Value Plays
- DraftKings: $3,600
- FanDuel: $5,400
Scotty Pippen Jr. could be a valuable asset tonight, with Ja Morant doubtful and Marcus Smart questionable for the Memphis Grizzlies. If both guards are sidelined, Pippen Jr. is in line for a significant role, potentially even earning a spot in the starting lineup. He’s already proven capable of stepping up when given the opportunity, as evidenced by his performance in games without Morant this season.
In the 11 games Morant has missed, Pippen Jr. has averaged 26.7 minutes, 14.3 points, 6.3 assists and 4.4 rebounds. He’s a dynamic guard with excellent court vision and a knack for creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. Pippen Jr. can also contribute on the boards and defensively, making him a well-rounded player with a high ceiling.
- DraftKings: $3,200
- FanDuel: $3,900
Luke Kennard could be a key beneficiary if Marcus Smart misses another game for the Memphis Grizzlies. In their last outing without Smart, Kennard saw 23 minutes of action and showcased his sharpshooting prowess, knocking down five three-pointers. He’s a valuable floor-spacer and efficient scorer who can heat up in a hurry. In the eight games Smart has missed this season, Kennard has averaged a solid 22.4 minutes, indicating his ability to step up when needed.
Tonight’s matchup against the Atlanta Hawks presents a favorable opportunity for Kennard to shine. The Hawks rank third in pace of play this month, suggesting a fast-paced, high-scoring environment. This should translate to more possessions and more shot attempts for Kennard, especially if the Grizzlies are shorthanded.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. (SF, PF – MIA)
- DraftKings: $3,800
- FanDuel: $4,400
If Jimmy Butler is ruled out for the Miami Heat tonight, Jaime Jaquez Jr. is someone to consider if you need a punt play. While this game against the Orlando Magic has the lowest total on the slate, featuring two strong defensive teams, Jaquez Jr.’s potential for increased playing time makes him an intriguing option.
Jaquez Jr. is a versatile player who can contribute with scoring, rebounding and playmaking. He’s a strong finisher around the basket and has a knack for making winning plays. With his potential for extended minutes and a chance to showcase his skills, Jaquez Jr. is worth considering, especially if you’re looking for a value play with upside.
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