Saturday’s NBA DFS slate features an intriguing mix of closely contested matchups, except for a potential blowout between the Knicks and Wizards. This creates a unique dynamic for roster construction, where strategic decisions regarding playing time and value will be crucial.
Six of the seven games on the slate are projected to be close, potentially leading to increased minutes for star players and more opportunities for lesser-known contributors to make an impact. Whether you prioritize the safety of established stars or the high-risk, high-reward potential of under-the-radar options, there’s a path to victory for every DFS player.
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: $11,900
- FanDuel: $12,300
Nikola Jokic’s price tag might be intimidating, but his recent performances justify the hefty cost. He’s simply playing on another level, as evidenced by his dominant showing last night against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he racked up 27 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists and three steals.
Jokic is a walking triple-double threat who can control the game in every facet, making him a must-play option despite his high salary.
Tonight, Jokic faces the Detroit Pistons, a team that plays at the seventh-fastest pace in the league. This up-tempo environment should create plenty of opportunities for Jokic to score, rebound and dish out assists. He’s projected to be the highest-scoring fantasy player on the slate, and with good reason.
- DraftKings: $10,200
- FanDuel: $9,900
Cade Cunningham has been a force for the Detroit Pistons, showcasing his all-around abilities and consistently filling the stat sheet. He’s recorded a double-double in three straight games, demonstrating his dominance as a scorer and passer.
Cunningham is a versatile guard who can impact the game in a variety of ways. His recent performances have been particularly impressive, with 55+ DraftKings points in four of his last five outings.
Tonight, Cunningham faces the Denver Nuggets, who are playing on zero days of rest. This could lead to fatigue and potential defensive lapses for the Nuggets, creating a favorable matchup for Cunningham to exploit.
- DraftKings: $8,500
- FanDuel: $8,700
Tyrese Maxey has been carrying a heavy workload for the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging a whopping 40.8 minutes per game over his last two outings. He’s a vital part of their game plan, and his production reflects that responsibility.
During this stretch, Maxey has been stuffing the stat sheet with averages of 32.5 points, 10 assists, seven rebounds and three steals. This all-around contribution makes him a great option with the potential to put up massive fantasy points.
Tonight, Maxey faces the Utah Jazz, a team that has struggled defensively. The Jazz rank 27th in defensive efficiency over their last five games, suggesting a favorable matchup for Maxey to exploit. With his heavy minutes, recent production and a vulnerable opponent, Maxey is someone to consider building lineups around tonight.
NBA DFS Cash Game Targets
- DraftKings: $8,400
- FanDuel: $9,100
Kyrie Irving’s recent performance might not have been his most efficient, shooting 6-of-21 from the field, but he still managed to put up 20 points. This highlights his ability to score even when his shot isn’t falling, showcasing his offensive versatility and knack for getting to the free-throw line. If his shot starts dropping tonight against the Portland Trail Blazers, his ceiling becomes incredibly high.
The Trail Blazers have struggled mightily on defense, ranking last in defensive efficiency over their last five games. This vulnerability should provide Irving with ample opportunities to score and facilitate.
Remember, the Mavericks are also without Luka Doncic, meaning Irving will be the focal point of the offense. With increased usage, a favorable matchup and the potential for a high-scoring game, Irving is a top-tier DFS option with the potential to carry your lineup.
- DraftKings: $7,800
- FanDuel: $7,400
With Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo expected to miss tonight’s game, Bobby Portis should be back in the starting lineup and ready to contribute in a major way. In his last three games without the Milwaukee Bucks’ star players, he’s stepped up, averaging 23.7 points, 10.3 rebounds and six assists per game.
Portis owns a 27.7% usage rate during that three-game span, showcasing his ability to thrive with increased responsibility. His game is perfectly suited for a high usage role; he’s a relentless rebounder who creates extra possessions, a capable scorer both inside and out and a willing passer who can find open teammates.
- DraftKings: $6,200
- FanDuel: $6,000
Collin Sexton has thrived with increased opportunities amidst the injury woes plaguing the Utah Jazz backcourt. Over his last two games, he’s commanded a 30.3% usage rate, showcasing his ability to take on a larger role in the offense.
This has translated to impressive averages of 21.5 points and eight assists, demonstrating his scoring prowess and playmaking skills. Sexton is a dynamic guard who can attack the basket, create for his teammates and provide a spark for the Jazz.
Tonight, Sexton faces the Philadelphia 76ers, a team that has shown some defensive vulnerabilities this season. However, it’s crucial to monitor the status of Jordan Clarkson and Keyonte George. If both players return to the lineup, Sexton’s minutes and usage could decrease significantly, making him a less appealing option for cash games.
NBA DFS GPP Targets
Lauri Markkanen (SF, PF – UTA)
- DraftKings: $7,500
- FanDuel: $7,600
Lauri Markkanen has stepped up his game in the absence of John Collins, showcasing his ability to carry the Utah Jazz offense. With Collins out for the past two games, Markkanen has averaged an impressive 25.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, demonstrating his scoring prowess and ability to contribute on the boards.
Markkanen is a versatile forward with a smooth shooting stroke and a knack for finding open looks. Markkanen can score from all three levels, making him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses.
Tonight, Markkanen faces the Philadelphia 76ers, a team that has had its ups and downs this season. With his recent strong performances, Markkanen is a high-upside option with the potential to deliver another big game.
Khris Middleton (SG, SF – MIL)
- DraftKings: $6,700
- FanDuel: $6,400
Khris Middleton becomes an intriguing GPP option if both Antetokounmpo and Lillard are ruled out for the Milwaukee Bucks. While there have been reports of lingering issues from his ankle surgeries, making him a risky play in cash games, Middleton’s recent performances suggest he’s still capable of putting up big numbers. The added benefit of a rest day should help alleviate any concerns about his health and conditioning.
Over his last three games, Middleton has averaged 20 points, six assists and 5.3 rebounds, showcasing his well-rounded skill set and ability to contribute across the board. He’s been incredibly efficient, shooting 58.8% from the field, indicating his ankle isn’t hindering his shooting stroke.
- DraftKings: $5,400
- FanDuel: $5,500
Malik Beasley has been a key contributor for the Detroit Pistons, providing a scoring punch off the bench. He currently ranks second on the team in usage rate (24.9%) and is averaging an impressive 20.3 points per game over his last three outings.
Despite coming off the bench, Beasley is making the most of his opportunities, showcasing his ability to score in bunches and provide instant offense. He’s a sharpshooter with a quick release and a knack for finding open looks, making him a valuable asset in DFS.
Tonight, Beasley faces the Denver Nuggets, a team that has struggled defensively, ranking 25th in defensive efficiency over their last five games. This vulnerability bodes well for Beasley, who should have plenty of opportunities to score against a Nuggets defense that is struggling and playing in a game with the highest total of the night.
NBA DFS Value Plays
- DraftKings: $3,900
- FanDuel: $4,700
Dalton Knecht could be a valuable addition to your lineups tonight if Anthony Davis or LeBron James are sidelined for the Los Angeles Lakers. Davis suffered an ankle sprain on Christmas Day and only played seven minutes, while James is dealing with an illness.
This presents an opportunity for Knecht to step up and contribute significant minutes. In their last game, Knecht took advantage of his 25 minutes of action, logging 13 points, seven rebounds and two assists.
If Davis or James is ruled out, Knecht should see another 20+ minutes of playing time against the Sacramento Kings. He’s a versatile player who can contribute in multiple categories, making him an intriguing option, especially at an affordable price. Keep a close eye on the Lakers’ injury report, as Knecht’s value increases if either star player is sidelined.
- DraftKings: $4,200
- FanDuel: $4,500
Trey Lyles proved his worth in the Sacramento Kings’ last game, stepping up admirably in the absence of Domantas Sabonis. He logged 25 minutes and delivered a strong performance with 20 points and eight rebounds, showcasing his efficiency and ability to contribute when given the opportunity. Lyles is a versatile forward who can stretch the floor with his shooting and battle for rebounds inside.
Tonight, Lyles faces the Los Angeles Lakers. With Sabonis potentially sidelined again, he could be in line for another bump in minutes. The Lakers’ frontcourt is athletic, which could force the Kings to lean on Lyles even more for his ability to space the floor and knock down shots. If Sabonis is indeed out, Lyles becomes an intriguing option with the potential to outperform his value.
- DraftKings: $3,900
- FanDuel: $4,100
If Lillard remains sidelined for the Milwaukee Bucks, AJ Green should continue to see significant minutes, as he has in his last three games, averaging 28.3 per contest. While his production hasn’t been eye-popping (eight points, four rebounds, 3.7 assists per game), his consistent playing time and affordable salary make him an intriguing option. Green is a solid shooter and capable defender who can contribute in multiple categories.
Tonight, Green faces the Chicago Bulls, who have been vulnerable defensively, ranking 24th in defensive efficiency over their last five games. This favorable matchup, combined with Green’s potential for extended minutes, makes him a player to consider.
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