Our thoughts are with those impacted by the ongoing wildfire in Southern California.
Two of tonight’s originally scheduled NBA games have been postponed due to the fires: Lakers vs. Spurs and Clippers vs. Hornets.
This leaves us with a three-game DFS slate. However, these matchups promise to be intense, with all three games having a 4.5-point spread or lower. This creates an intriguing landscape for DFS, where strategic decisions regarding playing time and value will be crucial.
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 tonight’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: $10,400
- FanDuel: $10,400
Cade Cunningham has been playing at a high level, and his hefty price tag reflects his dominance on the court. He’s rightfully the most expensive player on tonight’s slate, possessing arguably the highest upside of any player. Cunningham has been on a tear recently, logging at least 57 DraftKings points in three of his last four games. He’s a dynamic scorer, a capable playmaker and a force on the boards, making him a triple-double threat every time he steps onto the floor.
Tonight, Cunningham faces the Toronto Raptors, a team that has struggled mightily on the defensive end. The Raptors own the second-worst defensive rating over their last four games and have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing point guards during that span. This vulnerability plays right into Cunningham’s hands, as he should have plenty of opportunities to score, create for his teammates and rack up fantasy points.
Anthony Edwards (SG, SF – MIN)
- DraftKings: $8,900
- FanDuel: $9,100
Anthony Edwards has been on an absolute tear recently, putting up incredible scoring numbers and carrying the Minnesota Timberwolves’ offense. Over his last four games, he’s averaging 35.8 points, 6.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists, showcasing his ability to fill the stat sheet and dominate opposing defenses. This offensive explosion is fueled by a 33.9% usage rate, highlighting his importance to the Timberwolves’ attack.
Tonight, Edwards faces the Memphis Grizzlies, a team that has struggled with defensive consistency all season. The Grizzlies have also allowed the most fantasy points to opposing shooting guards over their last seven games, making this a dream matchup for Edwards.
NBA DFS Cash Game Targets
- DraftKings: $5,500
- FanDuel: $6,100
Jalen Duren has been a steady force in the paint for the Detroit Pistons, providing consistent production and a solid fantasy floor. He’s recorded a double-double in two of his last three games, showcasing his ability to dominate the boards and contribute with scoring. Over that span, Duren is averaging 10 points, 11 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. Since early December, he’s been a reliable source of fantasy points, consistently delivering value at his affordable price tag.
Tonight, Duren faces the Toronto Raptors, a team that has struggled against opposing centers. The Raptors have given up the sixth-most fantasy points to the position over their last seven games, suggesting a favorable matchup for Duren.
- DraftKings: $5,500
- FanDuel: $5,200
Nikola Jovic has been carving out a significant role for himself in the Miami Heat rotation, and his recent performances have caught the eye of DFS players. He’s averaged 26.4 minutes per game over his last four outings, showcasing his versatility and ability to contribute across the board. During this stretch, Jovic has averaged 15 points, four rebounds and three assists per game, demonstrating his well-rounded skillset.
Tonight, Jovic faces the Portland Trail Blazers, a team that has struggled defensively this season. This favorable matchup, combined with Jovic’s recent uptick in minutes and production, makes him an intriguing option. He has the potential to outperform his value, especially if he continues to see significant playing time.
NBA DFS GPP Targets
- DraftKings: $5,400
- FanDuel: $6,200
Rudy Gobert has been a dominant force in the paint for the Minnesota Timberwolves, providing elite rebounding and rim protection skills. Over his last three games, he’s averaging 8.3 points, 14.7 rebounds and 2.7 blocks, showcasing his ability to control the boards and alter shots. Gobert is someone to consider in matchups where his size and defensive presence are needed.
Tonight, Gobert faces the Memphis Grizzlies, a team known for its size and physicality in the frontcourt. This matchup should guarantee Gobert sees significant minutes, as the Timberwolves will need his presence to battle on the boards. The Grizzlies have also allowed the sixth-most rebounds to opposing centers over their past seven games, suggesting a favorable opportunity for Gobert to dominate the glass.
- DraftKings: $5,600
- FanDuel: $5,700
Malik Beasley has been a key contributor for the Detroit Pistons this season, providing a consistent scoring punch off the bench. Over their last four games, he ranks second on the team in scoring, averaging 18 points per game. Beasley is a sharpshooter with a quick release and the ability to heat up in a hurry. He’s a threat from beyond the arc and can also attack the basket, making him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses.
Tonight, Beasley faces the Toronto Raptors, a team that has struggled defensively all season long. He should see plenty of open looks and have ample opportunity to contribute offensively.
NBA DFS Value Plays
- DraftKings: $3,300
- FanDuel: $5,200
Scoot Henderson may be coming off the bench for the Portland Trail Blazers, but he’s still making a significant impact and producing at a high level. In his last two games, he’s played 27.8 minutes per game and has averaged 16.5 points and 4.5 assists, demonstrating his ability to both score and create for his teammates. He’s a dynamic guard with incredible athleticism and a knack for attacking the basket. Henderson is also a capable passer, able to find open teammates for easy baskets.
Tonight, Henderson faces the Miami Heat, a team that has been solid defensively this season. However, with his recent performance and consistent minutes, Henderson is an intriguing option with the potential to outperform his value.
- DraftKings: $3,300
- FanDuel: $4,000
Donovan Clingan could be a sneaky-good play tonight if Deandre Ayton is ruled out for the Portland Trail Blazers. Ayton was limited to just 21 minutes in his last game, raising concerns about his calf. With Ayton sidelined, Clingan stepped up and played 24 minutes, delivering a solid performance with 11 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks. This showcased his ability to contribute when given the opportunity, making him an intriguing option if Ayton misses tonight’s game.
If Ayton is indeed ruled out, Clingan should see another 20+ minutes of action against the Miami Heat. He’s a young center with good size and potential, capable of rebounding effectively and protecting the rim. While his offensive game is still developing, Clingan’s ability to contribute in those areas makes him an interesting play, especially at his affordable price.
- DraftKings: $3,500
- FanDuel: $4,300
While Anthony Edwards has been stealing the spotlight with his recent scoring outbursts, Mike Conley has quietly been putting together a solid stretch of performances for the Minnesota Timberwolves. He’s flown under the radar in DFS, but his recent production warrants attention. Conley has delivered at least 21 DraftKings points in three consecutive games, showcasing his ability to contribute with points, assists and rebounds. He’s a steady veteran presence who can control the pace and make smart decisions with the ball.
Tonight, Conley and the Timberwolves face the Memphis Grizzlies in a game with the highest total on the slate. This suggests a fast-paced, high-scoring affair, which should create plenty of opportunities for Conley to contribute.
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