NBA DFS: Studs, scrubs, and duds for January 8, 2020

1 of 3

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DECEMBER 15: Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Orlando Magic stands on the court during a NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on December 15, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

Top star players, best value picks, and guys you should stay away from on January 8 in NBA DFS on DraftKings and FanDuel.

Welcome to Studs, Scrubs, and Duds; FanSided’s NBA DFS lineup helper.

Here’s what’s on the slate for tonight:

How this works:

Studs: Top high salary picks that you can build your lineup around.
Scrubs: Value players looking for a big night or consistent options to help fill out your lineup.
Duds: Players to avoid given their high salary and/or poor matchup.

Five players are picked on each slide, positions are not applicable, and both DraftKings and FanDuel salaries are listed.

Studs

James Harden (at ATL – $12,800 on DK; $11,200 on FD): No Russell Westbrook as he rests means more James Harden. Even with Westbrook, Harden typically puts up big numbers simply because of the Houston offense. But with Westbrook out, Harden will have the ball in his hands even more. And it’s a great matchup against a Hawks team that typically doesn’t show up on the defensive end. Harden could easily be the top scorer on the night and is worth the hefty price. Clint Capela is also worth a look if you don’t want to spend on Harden.

Nikola Vucevic (vs WAS – $9,000 on DK; $8,800 on FD): Vucevic isn’t going to hurt you as he’s proven his consistency in recent weeks. And he has the right matchup to deliver a big outings. The Wizards are weak against the position and while they play hard on most nights, they rarely play with any kind of consistency on both ends of the floor. Vucevic should be a double double with big scoring numbers.

Kyle Lowry (at CHA – $8,600 on DK; $8,200 on FD): It’s a back to back for the Raptors, which is the concerning part of this game. But it’s a good matchup against a weak Hornets squad and with VanVleet out of the lineup, Lowry will take on more responsibility. There’s some good value across the Raptors given the matchup and circumstances. Don’t be afraid to grab Serge Ibaka if you’re not feeling Lowry.

Donovan Mitchell (vs NY – $8,400 on DK; $8,300 on FD): The only concern in this game is that it might be a blowout with the Knicks on a back to back and being the Knicks. But Mitchell is at a good price and if nothing else, will give you value. And the ceiling is much higher given the matchup. Root for a competitive game. And if you don’t like Mitchell, Gobert will save you some money and give you similar value for the price. I just prefer Mitchell’s scoring ability.

Jaylen Brown (vs SA – $7,400 on DK; $7,100 on FD): The Spurs are weak against the position and Brown has been playing consistent basketball as of late. He always gets the minutes and opportunities and benefits from Kemba being out as it opens up even more opportunities. He’s not going to hurt you at this price and the ceiling is much higher given his ability to do a bit of everything.