Life has a way of keeping us on our toes, and tonight’s slate is no exception. It’s the first Sunday of January, January 5th, and we’re kicking off the new year with a dynamic NBA DFS slate that’s bursting with opportunities to build some creative lineups. Health and coaching decisions are going to play a pivotal role in tonight’s action, so flexibility and patience are key. While outcomes may not always align with our expectations, they often pave the way for exciting surprises – and that’s what makes nights like this so much fun.
This slate is shaping up to be a night where star pairings shine brighter than ever. The pricing and value points on this slate open the door for some unique constructions, making it an ideal time to experiment with bold lineup strategies before trade season brings its inevitable shake-ups. Tonight offers a mix of solid floor options and explosive ceiling potential, giving us plenty to work with as we look to build lineups that stand out.
Whether you stick with your favorites or take a chance on some of the value plays highlighted, tonight’s slate is about trusting your instincts, staying sharp, and having fun.
As always, the FantasyPros team is here to guide you through the slate. Lean on the expertise of Nick Rodriguez (@NickIsInNet), Ryan Coleman (@ryancoleman_98), and Daniel E. Dobish (@danieledobish) for insights that will elevate your approach and help you make informed decisions.
Let’s tackle tonight’s games with focus, creativity, and confidence. The slate is set, the opportunities are endless, and the clock is ticking. Let’s lock in and make it count. 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: $10,500
- FanDuel: $11,500
Elite Production, Elite Potential
It’s hard not to think about how Anthony Davis’ career would look if injuries hadn’t been such a recurring theme. Imagine a consistently healthy AD – where would he rank in the GOAT conversation? This thought isn’t just hypothetical; it’s a reminder of the greatness we’re witnessing, even as he plays through less-than-ideal conditions.
This season, Davis is averaging 25.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.1 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game – all while battling through physical limitations. His numbers are elite, and on tonight’s slate, he looks primed to dominate.
Facing the Rockets after a day of rest offers the perfect opportunity for Davis to ramp up for a potential slate-breaking performance. With LeBron continuing to push his legacy into the stratosphere, it feels like Davis is riding the same wave of motivation. The duo seems determined to leave an indelible mark on the league, and Davis looks poised to be a critical part of that effort.
Recommendation and Strategy
Davis is expensive, no doubt, but his floor and ceiling make him an excellent cornerstone for your DFS lineup. Tonight’s value plays offer enough flexibility to make his inclusion feasible without feeling like you’re compromising elsewhere.
If you’re looking for explosive potential combined with reliability, Davis fits the bill. He’s a top-tier option for both cash games and GPPs, especially given his ability to dominate across multiple categories. Pair him strategically with mid-tier plays to maintain balance while capitalizing on his immense upside.
- DraftKings: $10,000
- FanDuel: $9,500
Legacy in Progress. New Legacy Loading.
James continues to defy age, logic, and expectations. Fresh off breaking another record, James appears driven to not just set the bar but obliterate it. His recent milestone doesn’t seem like a capstone; instead, it feels like a launchpad for an extended run of greatness.
While Davis brings raw dominance, LeBron’s consistency and leadership make him a more affordable yet equally impactful DFS option tonight. Averaging 25.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game, LeBron remains a high-floor, high-ceiling player who can anchor your lineup across all formats.
Recommendation and Strategy
If you’re choosing between Davis and LeBron due to salary constraints, LeBron’s slightly lower cost makes him the more budget-friendly option without sacrificing elite production potential. He’s a safer play for cash games, but don’t sleep on his ability to deliver a slate-breaking performance, especially in a game where the Lakers look to solidify their position in the West.
Core Play Considerations
Final Thoughts – Honestly, I think Davis and James are the only ones that fit the bill tonight. I think playing both of them may be the move, but at least one may be required.
Both players offer immense potential to dominate this slate, whether you’re chasing high floors, high ceilings, or a perfect combination of the two. Build your lineup strategically, trust your instincts, and watch these legends make their mark yet again.
For those bold enough to roster both, leverage value plays to balance your lineup. Otherwise, consider pairing LeBron with another mid-tier or high-value play to maximize upside while staying competitive in both Cash Games and GPPs.
Davis and James are more than just core plays tonight – they’re a reminder of what’s possible when greatness collides with opportunity.
NBA DFS Cash Game Targets
- DraftKings: $10,000
- FanDuel: $9,500
Reliable Greatness, Night After Night
James is a great cash game play for tonight’s slate. Even in the twilight of his career, he continues to deliver elite production. This season, he’s averaging 24.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 8.9 assists, 0.6 blocks, and 0.7 steals per game. While the explosive 40+ point outings may be fewer, LeBron’s consistency remains unparalleled, offering a dependable high floor for DFS players.
It’s worth noting the broader context: LeBron is in the 40 Club, playing through injuries, and balancing a roster of younger players in a league undergoing rapid changes. Despite all this, he continues to defy expectations, demonstrating why he’s still a cornerstone of DFS lineups.
Recommendation and Strategy
LeBron’s value lies in his ability to consistently deliver across multiple categories. His price point is more manageable than Anthony Davis, making him a strong option for those looking to balance their roster without overreaching on salary. If forced to choose between the two, LeBron’s affordability gives him the edge for cash game formats, allowing you to build a lineup with greater flexibility while still securing elite production.
Tonight’s matchup offers LeBron an opportunity to continue cementing his legacy. With his sights set on solidifying his place in the record books, he’s likely to play with an added sense of purpose. Whether he delivers a slate-breaking performance or simply meets his usual standards, LeBron is a safe bet for all formats.
Pairing him with other reliable mid-tier plays will ensure a balanced lineup, minimizing risk while maximizing return. His high floor makes him ideal for cash games, and even if he doesn’t reach his ceiling, he’s almost guaranteed to keep your lineup competitive.
Cash Game Target Considerations
- DraftKings: $5,900
- FanDuel: $5,700
NBA DFS GPP Targets
- DraftKings: $5,700
- FanDuel: $6,200
Steady Veteran with Breakout Potential
Draymond Green finds himself in an intriguing spot tonight as the Warriors work through what could be considered their “growth and pivot” season. After a hot start, the team has cooled off, and fans are beginning to feel the weight of the transition. Green, however, remains a steadfast presence, continuing to contribute across multiple categories.
While his rebounds and assists are slightly down compared to previous seasons, Green is still delivering value in steals and blocks, making him a versatile asset in DFS lineups. His production may not scream ceiling-breaking potential every night, but his floor remains dependable, especially when matched up against a Sacramento Kings squad looking to regain momentum.
Recommendation and Strategy
The Kings’ recent slump and vulnerabilities on their roster due to abrupt coaching changes and undisclosed moves being discussed, should create a golden opportunity for Green to excel. Green should be able to exploit this and tap into his defensive prowess, generating steals and blocks while facilitating the Warriors’ offensive flow.
Green’s recent performances against teams like the 76ers, Suns, and Cavaliers showcase his ability to step up in competitive matchups. Tonight, against the Kings, he’s positioned to deliver a balanced game that provides both safety and the possibility of a ceiling performance.
Given his lower salary, Green allows DFS players to craft lineups featuring higher-priced stars while still maintaining a solid foundation. On a slate where unconventional pairings and value plays might define success, Green stands out as a savvy pick that can fit into both GPP and cash game formats.
GPP Target Considerations
- DraftKings: $7,100
- FanDuel: $6,200
NBA DFS Value Plays
Tristan da Silva (SF/PF – ORL)
- DraftKings: $5,100
- FanDuel: $5,000
Emerging Talent on Display
The Orlando Magic have been navigating their injuries masterfully, transforming challenges into opportunities for their younger, less prominent players. Among them, Tristan da Silva is emerging as an exciting development. While his minutes have been inconsistent, his production when on the floor is hard to ignore.
Silva has showcased his ability to score efficiently, a valuable trait that has allowed him to capitalize on the opportunities presented by a depleted Magic roster. But this isn’t just about raw production. Silva is stepping into a critical developmental phase, demonstrating his ability to contribute mentally and bring value beyond just numbers – a trait shared by rising stars like Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and Jose Alvarado.
While his game is currently points-dependent, Silva’s potential to add rebounds, steals, and the occasional assist makes him an intriguing option. His efficient shooting gives him an edge, suggesting that his scoring could become a reliable source of value.
Recommendation and Strategy
Tonight’s matchup presents a unique opportunity for Silva to take a significant step forward in his development. At just $5,000 on DraftKings, his price is far too low for the potential upside he offers. The Magic’s uneven but promising matchup tonight creates a perfect storm for Silva to shine, even if only as an isolated case.
If you’re looking for a low-risk, high-reward play, Silva is your guy. The ownership is managed well enough to avoid him becoming too chalky, and his ability to produce value through efficient shooting makes him a strong consideration for GPP formats.
Final Word – With the injuries piling up, he is being shown an opportunity. Much like Neo in The Matrix when Morpheus shows Neo the jump program, Silva has an opportunity to make his “first jump” tonight.
He might not make it, but the potential is there for him to put together a game that takes full advantage of the opportunity, while further showcasing his promise as the next one for this talented squad and put together a game that turns heads.
At $5,000, it’s a red pill worth taking. And if he makes the first jump? Well, we might need to start rethinking his role moving forward. Tonight could be the formal beginning of something special – magic you could say – let’s see where Silva’s journey takes us.
Value Play Considerations
Primary Format(s): GPPs, Cash
Primary Appeal(s): Production Potential, Price, Ownership
- DraftKings: $5,800
- FanDuel: $5,900
Primary Format(s): GPPs, Cash
Primary Appeal(s): Production Potential, Price, Ownership
- DraftKings: $5,300
- FanDuel: $5,100
Primary Format(s): GPPs
Primary Appeal(s): Price, Production Potential, Contrarian
- DraftKings: $5,600
- FanDuel: $4,100
Primary Format(s): GPPs
Primary Appeal(s): Price, Contrarian, Production Potential
- DraftKings: $3,000
- FanDuel: $3,700
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