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

Duds

Giannis Antetokounmpo (at GS – $11,500 on DK; $11,400 on FD): The issue with Giannis is rarely his ability to put up numbers because he almost always puts up numbers. In this matchup, it’s about his minutes. Expect an all-around effort from the Bucks after their recent loss against an overmatched Warriors squad. As such, Giannis might not play the minutes you need him to play to deliver a big game at this salary.

Bam Adebayo (at IND – $8,300 on DK; $8,400 on FD): Adebayo likely won’t hurt you because he plays a consistent game. And the potential loss of Butler could go either way as more opportunities means more scoring, but it also means more attention and tighter defense. The issue with Adebayo is his lack of upside in this game. It’s a tough matchup and even if he gives you value, I wouldn’t expect much more than that.

Devonte’ Graham (vs TOR – $7,600 on DK; $7,300 on FD): The good news for Graham is that the Raptors are on a back to back. The bad news is that he’s cooled off in three of his last four games and the Raptors are very good against the position. I’m leaning more towards Rozier in this matchup because I find his ceiling to be a bit higher. Graham will likely play well, but Rozier offers a bit more bang for your buck.

Julius Randle (at UTA – $7,600 on DK; $7,300 on FD): The Knicks are on a back to back and they have a tough matchup against the Jazz. Things just aren’t looking good for them in this game. They play relatively hard on most nights but this is a tough price to pay when there is more guaranteed value below him in guys like Tatum, Lonzo, and Will Barton.

Lauri Markkanen (at NO – $6,900 on DK; $6,300 on FD): Markkanen’s price has jumped off a couple good games and that’s concerning for me given his inconsistencies throughout the season. It’s not a bad matchup as the Pelicans are mediocre against the position. I just see more value below him in guys like Bogdanovic and Gordon.