NBA DFS: Top Daily Fantasy Expert Picks for DraftKings, FanDuel (12/20/24)

Happy Friday RotoBallers! The NBA DFS slate for December 20, 2024, features a compact three-game schedule, making lineup construction all about leveraging elite matchups and identifying value plays. With fewer games, ownership will condense around key players, so we'll focus on identifying core plays, GPP pivots, and value picks to give you an edge.

Striking the right balance between safe options for cash games and high-upside plays for GPPs is crucial for building winning lineups tonight. With a slate featuring several fast-paced matchups alongside strong defensive teams, identifying the best game environments to target will be key. Let’s dive into the top plays across various price tiers to help you succeed on DraftKings and FanDuel tonight.

This article will provide my daily fantasy basketball lineup picks for DraftKings and Fanduel on 12/20/24. Remember to monitor NBA injury news and our awesome NBA injuries report tool, as the slate can completely change before lineups lock at 7:00 p.m. EST. 

NBA DFS Core Picks

Giannis Antetokounmpo (MIL - PF/C)

DraftKings: $11,300  - FanDuel: $12,200

Giannis is the cornerstone to build around for tonight's slate. Without Damian Lillard, his usage rate sees a substantial bump, often exceeding 35%. That elevated workload translates into elite fantasy production, as Giannis thrives in high-usage situations. Cleveland’s defense, anchored by Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, struggles to contain dominant forwards who can attack in transition and create off the dribble.

Additionally, Giannis' ability to pile up peripherals—blocks, steals, and assists—makes him nearly matchup-proof. Expect him to produce a 60+ fantasy point ceiling with a strong floor for cash and GPP lineups.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC - PG)

DraftKings: $10,300 - FanDuel: $11,100

SGA has been a fantasy goldmine this season, ranking among the league leaders in usage and efficiency. Miami’s slower pace may temper expectations for a shootout, but Shai has proven to be matchup-proof, even against strong defenses.

He can accumulate fantasy points from all three levels (paint, midrange, and beyond the arc) and produce regardless of opponent adjustments. With a steady dose of minutes and the potential for defensive peripheral stats (steals, blocks), Shai is a safe play for cash contests and carries enough upside for GPPs. Miami lacks the personnel to truly disrupt his rhythm, making him a standout guard option tonight.

LaMelo Ball (CHA - PG)

DraftKings: $9,800 - FanDuel: $10,200

LaMelo is a walking triple-double threat, and his ceiling grows exponentially if Brandon Miller is ruled out. Miller’s absence funnels more playmaking and scoring responsibilities to Ball, further elevating his fantasy outlook. Philadelphia’s defense could be weakened if Joel Embiid sits, opening the door for LaMelo to attack the rim at will and dictate the pace of the game.

LaMelo Ball tonight:

34 Points
13 Assists
4 Rebounds
4 Steals
11/32 FGM
3/18 3PM pic.twitter.com/YS8O2czzV1

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 20, 2024

Over his last five games, LaMelo has averaged over 20 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds, showcasing his ability to fill the stat sheet. His combination of high usage, elite passing, and improved three-point shooting make him a top-tier option tonight, particularly in GPP formats.

Bam Adebayo (MIA - C)

DraftKings: $8,100 - FanDuel: $8,400

Bam has been one of the most consistent contributors for Miami, and tonight’s matchup against OKC sets him up for success. OKC’s frontcourt, while athletic, lacks the physicality to slow down a versatile big like Bam. With the ability to score efficiently in the post, rebound aggressively, and facilitate from the elbow, Bam offers multiple avenues to rack up fantasy points. Additionally, his defensive presence (blocks and steals) gives him an added boost, particularly in GPPs. Expect a strong showing, with a realistic path to a 40+ fantasy point outing, making him a solid play for all contest formats.

NBA DFS Tournament Pivots

Paul George (PHI - SF/PF)

DraftKings: $8,500 - FanDuel: $8,800

Paul George is an intriguing tournament pivot, particularly with Joel Embiid's status uncertain. If Embiid sits, George will take on a more prominent role as a scorer and facilitator for the 76ers. Even with Embiid active, George’s skill set allows him to contribute across multiple categories, including rebounds, assists, and defensive stats. Charlotte’s wing defense has been a liability this season, ranking near the bottom of the league in defending opposing small forwards and power forwards.

George's ability to create his own shot, combined with his elite three-point shooting and slashing ability, makes him a high-ceiling option. His ownership is likely to be lower than the top-tier plays, making him a strong GPP target with a 50+ fantasy point ceiling.

Evan Mobley (CLE - PF/C)

DraftKings: $7,700 - FanDuel: $8,500

Evan Mobley’s unique skill set positions him as a strong pivot in tournaments. With Giannis anchoring the Bucks' defense, Mobley will need to assert himself offensively to exploit mismatches against Milwaukee’s secondary defenders, such as Bobby Portis or Brook Lopez.

Mobley’s versatility as a scorer in the mid-range and his ability to finish around the rim make him a tough cover for any frontcourt. Mobley’s defensive impact through blocks, steals, and rebounding gives him a high floor, while his offensive creativity provides upside. In tournaments, he’s an excellent mid-range play with 40+ fantasy point potential.

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DraftKings NBA DFS Value Picks

Bobby Portis (MIL - PF/C)

DraftKings: $5,400 - FanDuel: $6,800

Bobby Portis is one of the best value plays on the slate, especially with Damian Lillard out. Portis has proven he can rack up fantasy points quickly when given the opportunity. Whether he’s filling in for Giannis during rest periods or playing alongside him in small-ball lineups, Portis contributes with his scoring, rebounding, and energy.

Against a Cleveland frontcourt that features strong rim protection, Portis’ ability to stretch the floor with his mid-range jumper and three-point shooting will be vital. He’s also an elite offensive rebounder, which could lead to extra possessions and second-chance points. At this salary, Portis has 30+ fantasy point upside if he sees enough minutes.

Mark Williams (CHA - C)

DraftKings: $4,900 - FanDuel: $5,400

Mark Williams offers tremendous value, especially on a slate where reliable cheap centers are scarce. While his minutes may be limited, his per-minute production in rebounds, blocks, and efficiency around the rim makes him a high-upside option.

Philadelphia may rest Joel Embiid, which would soften their interior defense and give Williams a better chance to succeed. Even in limited minutes, Williams has shown the ability to secure double-digit rebounds and add a couple of blocks, giving him a strong floor for his price. On a short slate, he’s a great option to balance your lineup while allowing for higher-priced stars.

Caris LeVert (CLE - PG/SG)

DraftKings: $5,200 - FanDuel: $6,200

Caris LeVert is a versatile value player who can deliver across multiple stat categories. With his ability to create his own shot, facilitate for teammates, and contribute defensively, LeVert offers a significant upside at his salary.

Caris LeVert this year:

#4 in 3PT %: (48.7)
#10 in True Shooting % (66.4)
#13 in Offensive Rating (130.2)
#20 in Win Shares per 48 Minutes (.195) pic.twitter.com/KhHkqEJb9l

— Across The Cavs (@AcrossCavs) December 19, 2024

If Cleveland deals with injuries or needs additional scoring against Milwaukee, LeVert’s role could expand even further. Milwaukee’s defense tends to focus on stopping primary scoring threats like Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, which could leave LeVert with favorable matchups. His skill set allows him to step into a larger role when needed, making him a strong play for 25+ fantasy points with the potential for more if the game script works in his favor.

Today's Top NBA DFS Game Stacks

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets

Key Players: Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges

With Joel Embiid questionable, this game could turn into a fast-paced shootout. Maxey and George are the primary options for Philly, while Ball and Bridges bring upside for Charlotte.

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

Key Players: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bobby Portis, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley

The Bucks-Cavs game has star power and intriguing mid-range options. Target this game for Giannis’ usage spike and Cleveland’s potential value plays.

My Favorite NBA DFS Picks for Today

Here is where I leave you with some of my favorites.

• Favorite Overall Play: Giannis Antetokounmpo
• Favorite Cash Play: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
• Favorite GPP Play: Paul George
• Favorite Value Play: Bobby Portis

NBA DFS News and Injury Alerts

More DFS Lineup Picks and Analysis