Strategy and Stats for 12/21/24 NBA Daily Fantasy Slate

As the clock strikes 07:00 PM EST tonight, the NBA offers a thrilling 12-game slate that promises fantasy fireworks, but none more so than when the Boston Celtics visit the Chicago Bulls at the United Center at 09:00 PM EST. With an Over/Under set at a staggering 244.0, this game is the jewel of tonight’s fantasy crown, suggesting a high-scoring affair that fantasy managers should capitalize on. Top projected players at each position are set to take center stage, from dynamic guards weaving through defenses to towering centers dominating the paint. This comprehensive breakdown will guide you through selecting those key players who are poised to outperform their projections and help you climb the leaderboards in tonight’s contests.

Top PG Picks for Today’s DFS Slate

Cade Cunningham ($10200), Detroit Pistons – Projected 53 pts

As we dive into today’s DFS landscape, Cade Cunningham emerges as a pivotal figure for fantasy managers. Over his last five games, Cunningham has been nothing short of spectacular, averaging 53.0 daily fantasy points. His scoring ability is evident with an average of 26.0 points per game, complemented by 10.0 assists and 7.2 rebounds. What makes these numbers even more impressive is his shooting efficiency; a robust 57.8% from the field and a solid 40.0% from three-point range. Despite facing a tough matchup against the Suns, who rank #5 in defense against point guards, Cunningham’s recent uptick in performance, especially his improved shooting from his previous five-game stretch (where he shot just 40.0% from the field), positions him as a strong play. His ability to maintain high minutes on the floor (35.3 per game) and increase his shot attempts (up 4.0 shots per game to 19.8) underlines his role as a primary offensive weapon for the Pistons. Given his DraftKings salary of $10200 and a projected point tally of 53.0, Cunningham holds a DFS value score of 5.2, categorizing him as a strong value pick for today’s games. His recent form, combined with his crucial role, makes him an enticing option despite the challenging defensive matchup.

Shooting Guard Spotlight

Kelly Oubre Jr. ($6200), Philadelphia 76ers – Projected 35.0 pts

Kelly Oubre Jr. has been on a remarkable run for the Philadelphia 76ers, showcasing his ability to be a significant contributor in daily fantasy sports. Over his last five games, Oubre Jr. has averaged 32.8 fantasy points per game, a notable increase from his previous set of five games where he averaged 28.2 points. This uptick is supported by his impressive stats line, including 14.8 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, coupled with a solid 59.3% shooting from the field and an exceptional 50.0% from three-point range. His increased court time, averaging 36.1 minutes per game recently, up from 27.5, has given him more opportunities to impact the game, evident from his increased shots per game from 7.0 to 9.8. Looking ahead, Oubre Jr. faces the Cavaliers, ranked #23 against SGs, positioning him as a potentially lucrative pick for the upcoming slate. His DraftKings salary of $6200 reflects a DFS value score of 5.6, categorizing him as a strong value pick for fantasy managers seeking a high-impact player.

Top Small Forward Picks for Today’s DFS Slate

Trey Murphy III ($6600), New Orleans Pelicans – Projected 37 pts

As we dive into the daily fantasy sports potential of Trey Murphy III, his recent performances have certainly turned heads. Over his last five games, Murphy has been lighting up the scoreboard with an average of 35.7 fantasy points per game, a noticeable improvement from his previous set of games where he averaged 32.8 points. This uptick is supported by his impressive shooting accuracy, hitting 60.0% from the field and 39.0% from three-point range, both significant increases over his prior outings. Murphy’s scoring ability has been particularly remarkable, averaging 21.2 points per game recently, up from 17.5. Although there has been a slight decrease in assists and rebounds, his overall impact remains strong. His increased court time, now averaging 36.8 minutes per game, allows him more opportunities to contribute across the board. Facing the Knicks, who rank #8 in defense against SFs, poses a challenge, yet Murphy’s current form suggests he can overcome tough matchups. With a DFS value score of 5.6, he stands out as a strong value pick at a $6600 salary on DraftKings. His projected points of 37.0 for the upcoming game further solidifies his status as a top contender in today’s fantasy lineup.

Power Forward Analysis for Today’s DFS Slate

Jalen Johnson ($8800), Atlanta Hawks – Projected 45.0 pts

As we delve into the daily fantasy sports potential of Jalen Johnson, his recent performances have solidified his status as a key player for the Atlanta Hawks. Over his last five games, Johnson has averaged 44.9 daily fantasy points, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly across multiple statistical categories. Notably, he has posted an average of 18.6 points, 5.2 assists, and 11.4 rebounds per game, with a robust field goal percentage of 55.0%. However, his three-point shooting has dipped to 18.8%, a stark contrast to his previous five-game stretch where he hit 47.6% from beyond the arc. Despite a slight decrease in his fantasy points and scoring, dropping by 3.5 and 4.6 points respectively compared to his previous performances, Johnson’s rebounding has improved, adding an average of 2.4 more rebounds per game. His increased court time, now averaging 38.8 minutes per game, underscores his critical role in the Hawks’ lineup. Facing the Memphis Grizzlies next, who rank #7 in defensive efficiency against power forwards, poses a challenging matchup for Johnson. However, his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game provides him with a 5.1 DFS value score, positioning him as a strong value pick at a DraftKings salary of $8800. Fantasy managers should consider Johnson’s all-around game and recent uptick in minutes when building their lineups, especially in a potentially tight contest against a stout defensive team.

Center Position Analysis

Victor Wembanyama ($10900), San Antonio Spurs – Projected 55 pts

Victor Wembanyama, the towering center for the San Antonio Spurs, continues to make waves in the NBA with his impressive performances. Over his last five games, Wembanyama has averaged 53.4 daily fantasy points, a slight dip from his previous five-game stretch where he posted 60.4. Despite this decrease, his overall contributions on the court remain substantial. He’s scoring an average of 26.0 points per game and has seen a slight increase in assists and rebounds, indicating his growing versatility and impact in games. Wembanyama’s shooting efficiency from the field stands at 56.6%, although it has decreased from an exceptional 71.4% in the earlier games. His three-point shooting also saw a decrease to 31.8%. These stats highlight some areas of fluctuation in his shooting prowess, yet his ability to maintain a high level of performance underlines his resilience and skill. Facing the Trail Blazers next, who rank #18 in defense against centers, Wembanyama’s matchup looks favorable. His projected DFS value score is 5.0, positioning him as a strong value pick in daily fantasy sports. Given his high salary of $10900, Wembanyama’s consistent output and potential for dominance in the upcoming game make him a compelling choice for DFS enthusiasts looking to invest in a top-tier center.