The 2025 rookie class takes center stage tonight, proving that the future of the league has already arrived. We are targeting two lottery picks who have quickly ascended from promising prospects to essential scoring options for their respective teams. A sharpshooter in Charlotte is primed to torch a weak perimeter defense, while Philadelphia's explosive guard looks to continue his hot streak under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. Both rookies are in smash spots to exceed their projections, making them the focus of our entry for the 1/3 slate.

 

 

 

Underdog Fantasy Free NBA Picks, January 3rd: NBA DFS Projections

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Kon Knueppel Underdog NBA Pick: Higher Than 18.5 Points

Charlotte Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel has silenced any doubters about his transition to the NBA, establishing himself as a lethal scoring threat on the wing. Averaging nearly 15 points per game this season, Knueppel has seen his usage tick up recently, and tonight he finds himself in an ideal environment to explode offensively.

The Hornets face the Chicago Bulls, a team that struggles mightily to contain perimeter shooters and often finds itself in high-scoring shootouts. Knueppel’s efficient stroke from beyond the arc gives him a massive ceiling in this matchup. With the Bulls' defense likely collapsing to stop drives, Knueppel should find plenty of open looks on kick-outs. Expect Charlotte to look for him early and often, allowing him to clear this 18.5-point line with relative ease.

 

 

 

VJ Edgecombe Underdog NBA Pick: Higher Than 15.5 Points

VJ Edgecombe has been a revelation for the Philadelphia 76ers, providing a dynamic scoring punch alongside Tyrese Maxey that the team desperately needed. The rookie guard enters tonight’s contest on a tear, having crushed this line in three of his last five games with point totals of 23, 25, and 26.

Tonight, Edgecombe makes his debut at Madison Square Garden against the New York Knicks. While the Knicks pride themselves on defense, Edgecombe’s elite athleticism makes him a nightmare in transition, where New York can be vulnerable. With the defense focused on containing Philadelphia's primary stars, Edgecombe will have lanes to attack the rim and showcase his finishing ability. Given his recent form and confidence, this line feels too low for a player with his current volume.

 

 

 

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