High Salary SG
James Harden, HOU at OKC ($11,100): The status of Chris Paul is uncertain, which changes the status of Harden. If Paul plays, I like Harden a bit less just because Paul will cut into his production and usage. If Paul is out, Harden’s value increases. That said, he’s walking into a matchup against the Thunder, who are second in the league against the position in their last 15 games. Harden will be hounded by Andre Roberson all game. Roberson typically does a good job on Harden, but without Paul in the lineup, he’s Houston’s best fantasy option. ****
Jimmy Butler, MIN at LAL ($8,400): Aside from a dud game against the Suns on Dec. 16, Butler has been fantastic in the month of the December. He’s averaging 45.4 FPPG during the month, nearly 10 points above expectations. The Lakers are 27th against the position in their last 15 games. On a Timberwolves team that has struggled with offensive consistency, Butler is by far the most reliable option on the team. He’s a big-time scorer who can put up decent numbers in all categories. ****
Klay Thompson, GS vs CLE ($6,400): Even without Steph Curry, Thompson has not raised his game like most expected him to do. Aside from a 43 fantasy point effort against Memphis, his ceiling has been about 35 fantasy points. The Cavaliers are 24th against the position in their last 15 games. If Thompson is going to show up and rain from three, this is the game for him to do it in. We know what he’s capable of and we still gets great looks in the Warriors offense. He needs just 28.7 fantasy points to hit value. That should be no issue and he’s good enough to be 10 points over value. ****