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Greetings and welcome to this Monday’s NBA DFS lineup analysis. I trust you enjoyed a successful weekend and are having an enjoyable season as we move beyond the All-Star break. If you’re diving into NBA DFS today, remember to pay attention to lineup updates and consider making late swaps—this strategy can give you an edge and help you secure cash prizes.
Tonight’s slate features either seven or eight games, depending on the DFS platform you prefer, which I find to be an ideal number of matchups. The key to success lies in making well-informed decisions and identifying the right opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at the top DFS picks for tonight’s NBA games.
**Nikola Jokić (C – DEN)**
Nikola Jokić often stands out as a top choice, particularly with his impressive average of 65 DraftKings points per game and exceptional scoring potential. This is especially true for tonight, given the 247-point total for the matchup against Indiana.
The Pacers play at the sixth-fastest pace in the league and are currently ranked 19th in defensive efficiency over the past ten games. Despite a recent underwhelming performance where Jokić only tallied 46 fantasy points, I’m inclined to take advantage of this slight decrease in output. I project around 70 fantasy points for him tonight, and I believe that shouldn’t require much convincing.
**Tyrese Maxey (PG – PHI)**
Tyrese Maxey is currently listed as questionable due to a right finger sprain, but expectations are that he will participate and face minimal restrictions. He has been averaging 27 points per game while clocking in around 38 minutes on the court.
Although Maxey’s scoring has dipped in his last three games, I anticipate a strong performance against the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls yield the third-most fantasy points to opposing point guards and rank third in offensive pace with one of the league’s poorest defenses.
Playing at home can give Maxey a boost, and he’s certainly capable of delivering big numbers against the Bulls. With a $9,000 price tag, he represents an excellent option on DraftKings and FanDuel.
**Pascal Siakam (PF – IND)**
If you’re considering a counterpick to Nikola Jokić, Pascal Siakam could be an excellent choice. With close to a 250-point total expected in this matchup, I foresee significant roster interest in this game. The Nuggets rank fifth in pace and sit at 17th in defensive ratings.
Additionally, they have been vulnerable defensively against power forwards, ranking eighth in the most points surrendered to that position. Siakam boasts a consistent 24% usage rate and is likely due for a scoring upswing. Given his capabilities, I foresee tonight as a big game for him.
**James Harden (PG – LAC)**
When selecting players for cash game lineups, I tend to focus on high usage rates, and James Harden checks that box with around 32% recently and approximately 30% for the season. His increasing minutes contribute positively to his value, and I estimate he will gather about 50 fantasy points.
Coming off a stellar 68-point fantasy performance, Harden may see a rise in roster percentage, but I see no issue with that. His high ceiling and consistent usage provide a solid floor as well. Although the game’s total isn’t particularly high, Harden is likely to be on the court for close to 40 minutes, making him a strong play tonight.
**Cameron Johnson (SF, PF – BKN)**
It might be a bit unexpected to see a player from Brooklyn on this list, but Cameron Johnson is definitely a target against Washington. The Wizards have allowed an abundance of fantasy points to opposing power forwards. They also rank second for lowest defensive efficiency and play at the fourth-fastest pace.
Brooklyn’s recent defensive performance can aid in their transition game, especially creating turnovers against the 24th-ranked Washington offense. Johnson should see about 32 minutes and has a 24% usage rate, positioning him well in what promises to be a high-paced game.
At under $7,000, he’s an appealing option that allows flexibility in your budget while still maintaining fantasy potential. Other Brooklyn players like Ziaire Williams or Nic Claxton could also be worthwhile additions.
**Nikola Vučević (C – CHI)**
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly center option, Nikola Vučević fits the bill. He typically plays over 30 minutes each game and has experienced a rising usage rate in his past ten outings. With an average of 41 DraftKings points per game, he has surpassed 30 points in seven of his last nine games—a reliable benchmark for his price range.
Concerns about Guerschon Yabusele defending him are minimal, and the overall performance of the 76ers has placed them near the bottom defensively lately. While Vučević may not offer a high ceiling, he is best suited for cash contests. With increased role in the Bulls’ revamped lineup, he’s a solid choice for tonight’s game with a total of 232 points.
**Toumani Camara (SG, SF – POR)**
I’m surprised that Toumani Camara’s ownership is predicted to be lower given his recent performances, but he has emerged as a key player at his price point. Post-All-Star break, he has delivered strong performances, recording 42 and 50 DraftKings points in his last two games.
Tonight, with dual eligibility as a guard and forward, Camara’s versatility gives you great options within your lineups. The Jazz allow the most fantasy points to shooting guards this season, and even more in the last 15 games. I anticipate that his popularity will increase as we approach lock time, making him one of my top selections for the slate.
**Quentin Grimes (SG, SF – PHI)**
If Tyrese Maxey ends up sitting out, Quentin Grimes could become the most heavily selected player on the slate. If Maxey participates, Grimes still represents a solid GPP play. I foresee that one, if not both, players could excel tonight. While Maxey may attract most of the attention, Grimes should not be overlooked.
The Bulls give up the third-most fantasy points to shooting guards, and with the anticipated fast pace and subpar defense from both teams, it could lead to a high-scoring game. Grimes has shown improvement lately, scoring over 30 fantasy points in three of his last four games, including a notable 54-point outing right before the All-Star break, underscoring his potential for a big game tonight.
**Kevin Huerter (SG, SF – CHI)**
Kevin Huerter hasn’t exactly shined while with the Bulls, but he has steadily increased his usage and playing time. After a 14-point game in 30 minutes against Phoenix on Saturday, he seems to be finding his rhythm, making him one of the better value picks for tonight.
Coming off a 25-point fantasy performance, matching that tonight would yield an impressive 7X return on investment. The 76ers have been generous defensively, allowing the seventh-most fantasy points to shooting guards in their last 14 games. As long as Huerter maintains his recent increase in usage and minutes, he presents a smart choice for both cash and GPP lineups.
**Donovan Clingan (C – POR)**
If you’re aiming to save some salary cap space at center tonight, Donovan Clingan is a solid choice. The matchup against Utah is favorable, as the Jazz rank among the highest in fantasy points allowed to centers, while Clingan is gaining confidence as he plays more minutes in his rookie season.
Having started the last three games, Clingan has exhibited a 17% usage rate over his last four games. While he is a budget option at center, there’s potential for him to exceed 30 fantasy points.
**KJ Martin (PF – UTA)**
Any starter logging over 20 minutes is generally a dependable value play. Following his injury, KJ Martin is gradually integrating back into the lineup, having played 29 minutes in his recent start. You can anticipate a similar workload tonight.
Even reaching 21 fantasy points would signify a respectable return on investment. Martin has seen a high of 37 fantasy points in the past, and while that might be rare tonight, he certainly has the capacity to achieve it. Crucially, Portland ranks 23rd in defensive efficiency this season, and I wouldn’t be concerned about them limiting Martin’s scoring potential, granting flexibility to spend on other high-tier players.
