When it comes to daily fantasy basketball, getting your DraftKings NBA lineup just right can feel like threading a needle during a fast break. But don’t worryI’ve got you covered! Whether you’re chasing value plays, stacking stars, or taking a chance on a sleeper, this carefully curated guide to the Top NBA DFS Picks will help set you up for success on December 20.

Point Guard: Stephen Curry ($10,000)

Hand up… Was there ever really a doubt? Steph Curry is always a strong DFS candidate, but on a slate like this, he’s more than just stronghe’s essential. Facing a team with inconsistent perimeter defense, the odds of Curry raining down threes like confetti at a championship parade are sky-high. He’s averaging over 50 fantasy points per game (FPPG) this season and thrives in high-tempo matchups like this one. Oh, and you might want to double-check the Splash Brother factor; Klay heating up alongside him makes Steph even more unguardable.

In DFS, shooting your shot with Steph Curry is never a riskit’s a reward.

Shooting Guard: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ($9,600)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is making a loud case for both his fantasy viability and MVP candidacy. If you’ve been ignoring SGA in your DFS lineups, you’ve also been ignoring an average of almost 48 FPPG this season. His matchup against a defense struggling to contain ball-dominant scorers means he could feast more than your uncle at the holiday dinner table. Whether driving to the basket or hitting from midrange, Shai’s versatility makes him a DFS cheat code. Plug him in and let the points stack up like a post-game highlight reel.

Small Forward: Brandon Ingram ($8,400)

Quietly but consistently, Brandon Ingram continues to be a DFS gem. While Zion Williamson draws all the attention, it’s Ingram who has been stuffing box scores like stockings by the fireplace. With a matchup that favors his polished mid-range shooting and ability to rack up assists, he makes a strong case for your daily fantasy lineup. At this price point, he’s not a splashy spend, but he balances what could otherwise be considered a star-heavy roster construction. Don’t sleep on B.I.

Power Forward: Domantas Sabonis ($9,100)

Big men who pass. That’s the money phrase here, folks. Sabonis is unique in that he not only grabs rebounds by the truckload but also dimes out assists like he’s auditioning for the point guard spot. His ability to generate triple-doubles or flirt dangerously close to them makes him a high-ceiling pick. Given the matchup dynamics, Sabonis could play a vital role in controlling pace and flow while dominating the glass. A sub-$9,500 Sabonis is value I love seeing this time of year.

Center: Walker Kessler ($6,000)

If you’re looking for a lower-salary option at the center position, Walker Kessler might just be your guy. While he doesn’t have the star power of Jokic or Embiid, his ability to block shots and grab boards makes him a sneaky value play. He’s the kind of player who can anchor your DFS lineup without forcing you to break the bank elsewhere. Keep in mind, matchups like this often bring out the best in Kessler, especially when he’s tasked with protecting the rim against aggressive penetrators.

Honorable Mentions

• Ja Morant: Always exciting, though consider minutes management.
• LaMelo Ball: A triple-double threat, but monitor his shooting efficiency.
• Bam Adebayo: Consistent floor with a potential for big block totals.

Value Picks to Watch

• Tyrese Maxey ($6,800): A strong slate to bet on his scoring upside.
• Al Horford ($5,300): A veteran value with reliable contributions across the board.
• Quentin Grimes ($4,700): Low-risk, potential high-reward in a fast-paced game.

Final Thoughts: Build Smarter, Not Harder

Daily Fantasy Basketball success boils down to combining research, value, and a bit of gut instinct. Whether you lean into star power with Curry and SGA or sprinkle in value picks like Kessler, finding the right mix is the key to climbing the leaderboards. Remember, lineups aren’t just statsthey’re stories. Write yours wisely, and here’s hoping your fantasy night turns into a highlight reel of its own.

Good luck out there, DFS managers!