NBA DFS:Studs, scrubs, and duds for December 29

Duds

James Harden (at NO – $10,700 on DK; $11,500 on FD): The matchup says this will be a big game for Harden. And if Westbrook doesn’t play, Harden will be left to his own devices. But fatigue is a real thing and the Pelicans defense has been better as of late. If the Pelicans force the ball out of Harden’s hands, he’s going to be a risk at this salary as the Pelicans will force everyone else to beat them. That’s my theory on why he’ll be a dud. Which probably means he’ll drop 50.

LeBron James (vs DAL – $9,800 on DK; $10,000 on FD): Its a back to back for the Lakers and who knows how banged up LeBron actually is coming out of the Christmas game. The Mavericks are very good against the position, which worries me as well. However, he has had two big games against the Mavericks this season, so that should give you some confidence. But the injury situation is too big of a red flag for me at the moment.

Derrick Favors (vs HOU – $6,500 on DK; $6,400 on FD): Favors has really revitalized the Pelicans and the Rockets are weak against the position. But Houston always seems to give him the business by forcing him out of his comfort zone and scheming him to the bench. Maybe that won’t happen with this weakened Houston squad. He did have a big game against the Rockets earlier this season, but he was a dud in the other. He’s a risk but the ceiling is high.

Buddy Hield (at DEN – $6,200 on DK; $5,700 on FD): It’s just not happening for Hield right now and until it does, there isn’t much reason to take him. Maybe he’ll break out of his slump, but this is a tough matchup as the Nuggets have a strong defense and are great against the position. There is far more reliable value below him.