3 NBA DraftKings Studs to Target on 12/27/17

DeMarcus Cousins, PF/C, New Orleans Pelicans

DraftKings Salary: $11,500

Today's slate is very interesting because, while some of the elite studs are in smash spots, many of them are dealing with significant blowout risk. That normally wouldn't be too much of a concern, but it coincides with a slate full of very appealing mid-range options. That makes paying all the way up a little more dicey on this slate.

If you do pay all the way up, you will be hard pressed to find a more appealing stud than DeMarcus Cousins. Cousins faces a Brooklyn Nets team that has been destroyed by opposing centers all year. Brooklyn creates a very fantasy-friendly environment in general, due to their fourth-ranked pace of play, and bottom-10 mark in rebounding rate and defensive efficiency. As such, it should come as no surprise that the New Orleans Pelicans have the highest implied team total on the board by a wide margin.

As long as this game stays close, Boogie should get whatever he wants. Brooklyn simply has no answer for him on the defensive end. He is a viable play in any format if you feel inclined to pay all the way up for a stud today.