NBA DFS: Studs, scrubs, and duds for Christmas Day
Scrubs
Montrezl Harrell (at LAL – $5,500 on DK; $5,500 on FD): Harrell is at a great salary given the role he plays for the Clippers. If the Lakers don’t have LeBron, it’s going to hurt their overall defense. And the pick and roll game with Harrell and Williams will be tough to defend. I also think Harrell can take advantage of the Lakers bench unit with his size and energy.
Will Barton (vs NO – $6,600 on DK; $6,500 on FD): Barton can be inconsistent but he’s coming off a strong game and the matchup is too good to pass up on. The Nuggets should have no issue against the Pelicans defense and we know Barton has a high ceiling. I like his more than Murray in this game as he’s slightly cheaper and has just as much potential to deliver.
Alec Burks (vs HOU – $5,600 on DK; $5,700 on FD): There isn’t a ton to like on the Warriors but Burks has proven himself capable in many roles and with the weak Houston bench, Burks should be able to shine. The Rockets are also weak against the position, which helps. I don’t like a ton about the Warriors in this game, but someone is going to step up and make an impact for them. My choice is Burks.
PJ Tucker (at GS – $4,400 on DK; $4,800 on FD): Tucker always seems to contribute in a big way against the Warriors. Granted, these aren’t the Warriors we’re used to. But Tucker is still gonna have an impact on this game as he’ll get his corner threes, chip in with defense, and grab some tough rebounds.
Kyle Kuzma (vs LAC – $3,900 on DK; $3,900 on FD): There are a lot of Christmas gifts on FanDuel at low prices that could have a big impact. If LeBron doesn’t play, KCP and Kuzma are great takes. If LeBron does play, I still like Kuzma, but Danny Green becomes a bigger factor. Jerami Grant, Wesley Matthews, and Ben McLemore are all guys who are going to get the minutes and opportunities to produce as well. Use one of these guys to grab another high salary player because they are low risk and high reward.