NBA DFS: Joel Embiid mismatch vs. Grizzlies makes him premier DraftKings play for Thursday

The NBA is finally set to return on Thursday after a six-game layoff. The nine-game main slate will begin at 7 p.m. ET and several players will make their debuts with new teaams following contract buyouts. Looking to get an edge? We've broken down a top stud, mid-tier, and value play on DraftKings ahead of lock here.

Ameer Tyree got his start in NBA DFS more than four years ago. The former DraftKings Nation betting and fantasy writer spent more than a year and a half breaking down basketball slates to build optimal lineups there. Now he's looking at three plays for Thursday.

One play Ameer loves: Joel Embiid at $11,100. "Embiid entered the All-Star break having totaled more than 60 DraftKings points in three of his previous four contests and should benefit from a massive mismatch on Thursday. The Philadelphia 76ers center nearly notched a triple-double in his first matchup with the Grizzlies this season, and now he'll face them without having to worry about Steven Adams' physicality," Ameer said about the matchup.

Keep reading to find out who else makes the cut on Thursday!

So what value plays stand out ahead of Thursday's nine-game slate? ... Join SportsLine here to see NBA DFS expert Ameer Tyree's advice and cash big on the NBA!