Fantasy Basketball Best Value Picks January 5 DraftKings NBA DFS Guide
NBA DFS Value Picks
Drafting a winning daily fantasy basketball lineup can sometimes feel like finding a needle in a haystack, but with the right value picks, you can turn a “meh” roster into a championship-caliber squad. Whether you’re playing in cash games or aiming to take home a GPP (Guaranteed Prize Pool), identifying the under-the-radar gems is key. On January 5, there’s a full slate of action, and today’s NBA DFS value plays can provide the spark to elevate your lineup. Let’s break down the top value picks for the day, position by position, so you can attack your DraftKings contests like a pro.
Point Guard: High Potential at Low Cost
The point guard position is often where you’ll find sneaky value, especially when starting-caliber players are out with injuries. Keep a close eye on injury reports, as they can open up opportunities for backup players who come with cheap salaries but high upside.
Target Player: Monte Morris ($4,800)
With the team riddled with injuries, Monte Morris steps in as a low-cost option with a high floor. He has shown the ability to rack up assists and knock down a few buckets, and at under $5,000, he’s poised to deliver value. Morris draws a favorable matchup against a team that struggles to defend opposing guards, so don’t sleep on him.
“Monte Morris has stepped up when called upon, and tonight could be another opportunity for him to shine in both DFS and real life.”
- Projected Minutes: 30+
- Ceiling: 35-40 DK points
- Risk level: Medium
Shooting Guard: Scoring on a Budget
The shooting guard position offers some delightful budget options today. If you’re looking to save salary at this position, there are a couple of intriguing options that can deliver a solid fantasy return without breaking the bank.
Target Player: Quentin Grimes ($4,500)
Grimes continues to log heavy minutes and has been heating up recently. His ability to contribute across categories makes him a sneaky good play at shooting guard. Plus, his salary allows you to splurge on superstars elsewhere in your lineup. Against an average defensive team, Grimes could easily surpass value tonight.
- Minutes are trending upward.
- Offers three-point shooting and light rebounding upside.
- Projected fantasy points: 28-32
Small Forward: Versatility and Upside
Small forward may not always be the sexiest position on your DFS roster, but tonight’s slate offers some strong value plays. These players are poised to deliver on their modest salaries while giving you some much-needed flexibility elsewhere in your lineup.
Target Player: Jaden McDaniels ($4,400)
McDaniels continues to fly under the radar. Known for his defensive prowess, he’s also carving out a bigger offensive role. At this salary, he’s worth a look, especially if you want some defensive stats like steals and blocks padding your totals.
“Jaden McDaniels is the definition of a quiet but effective DFS option. He won’t break the slate, but he can help you win games.”
- Expect decent minutes.
- Potential for a 10-point, 8-rebound, 2-block type of game.
- Low ownership anticipated, perfect for tournaments.
Power Forward: Big Impact for Small Change
Power forward is often where you see value explode, especially when injuries affect the frontcourt. Tonight, there are a few underpriced options that could add some serious punch to your lineup.
Target Player: Isaiah Jackson ($4,100)
When given the minutes, Isaiah Jackson has been a walking double-double machine. His ability to collect rebounds and swat shots makes him a high-upside play at a laughably low salary. Check the injury news before lock, but if he’s slotted for 20+ minutes, he could be tonight’s fantasy hero.
- Blocks + boards = value galore.
- Only $4,100; incredible points per dollar potential.
- Perfect pivot to differentiate from the competition.
Center: Dominance on a Budget
Center is always a make-or-break position in DFS. You’re either splurging on a stud or looking for solid production from a low-cost role player. For tonight, we’ve got a no-brainer pick who can help you conserve salary while delivering a strong points total.
Target Player: Onyeka Okongwu ($4,600)
Okongwu has been quietly producing at a high level, especially with his ability to dominate the glass. He’s at a price point that makes fitting in studs easier without sacrificing upside. With an exploitable opposing frontcourt today, he’s a solid play.
- Projected double-double potential.
- Great matchup with limited foul trouble risk.
- Usage rates are trending in the right direction.
Final Thoughts on NBA DFS Value Picks
Finding value is the name of the game when crafting an optimal NBA DFS lineup. For January 5, the likes of Monte Morris, Quentin Grimes, Jaden McDaniels, Isaiah Jackson, and Onyeka Okongwu offer strong upside at minimal cost. These players allow you to invest heavily in the night’s star performers, creating a balanced and competitive lineup.
As always, pay close attention to the latest injury reports and starting lineup announcements. DFS is as much about timing as it is about research. So, fill your roster with value, stack some stars, and let the lineup lock countdown begin!
Best of luck, and may the fantasy gods be ever in your favor!