This article is part of our DraftKings NHL series.
GOALIE
Brian Elliott, PHI vs. DET ($8,300): While the Red Wings enter this road contest with consecutive wins, Detroit is also on the second leg of a back-to-back set and sports an active 5-6-6 record. Before a rough outing against Los Angeles last time out, Elliott had won six straight starts with a .949 save percentage and 1.48 GAA, so this appears to be a ripe bounce-back spot. Just note that the 32-year-old Newmarket, Ont. native will likely be a popular target.
CENTER
Brayden Schenn, STL at CGY ($6,900): Projected to skate with Vladimir Tarasenko in all situations, Schenn's fantasy upside receives a nice boost with the two stars reconnected. The duo have combined for 5.12 goals per 60 minutes this season, and Schenn has recorded an elite 3.34 points per hour. It's also worth noting that Calgary hasn't been sharp at home in December with a 1-4-0 record and 3.8 goals per game.
William Nylander, TOR vs. CLM ($4,800): The young Swede snapped a seven-game goal drought Tuesday, and he's projected to skate on an intriguing line with Patrick Marleau and Zach Hyman again against Columbus. The Blue Jackets have been a tough matchup this season, but over their past 10 contests, they've surrendered 3.47 goals and 12.89 high-danger scoring chances (fourth highest) per 60 minutes. Nylander's salary also adds to his appeal.
WING
Claude Giroux, PHI vs. DET ($6,600): As noted this is a soft matchup against Detroit, as the Red Wings have surrendered 3.55 goals per 60 minutes during the noted 17-game stretch. Giroux enters with two goals and eight points while averaging 20:52 of ice time (4:13 with the man advantage) through his past six outings. Additionally, his 3.23 points per hour highlight his offensive resurgence this season.
Mitch Marner, TOR vs. CLM ($4,700): A high-risk, high-reward option, Marner played his best game of the season -- and arguably his career -- Tuesday. With his skill level, the pint-sized winger is the type of player who can parlay a monster showing into a strong scoring stretch. Additionally, his eight multi-point showings for the campaign highlight his upside, especially relative to his salary.
Vladimir Sobotka, STL at CGY ($4,200): Look for the Czech winger to siphon off value from linemates Brayden Schenn and Vladimir Tarasenko. Sobotka has missed the scoresheet in five consecutive games, so his current form is poor. Still, the trio has connected for an impressive 4.51 goals per 60 minutes for the campaign, and Sobotka's salary opens up spending room to potentially stack all three.
DEFENSE
Shayne Gostisbehere, PHI vs. DET ($5,700): Among all defenseman with at least 500 minutes this season, Gostisbehere's 2.41 points per 60 minutes pace the entire league. So, with his salary manageable, he's close to a lineup lock in a shallow defense pool and against a favorable opponent. Again, like teammate Brian Elliott, Gostisbehere will probably be a popular target.
Jake Gardiner, TOR vs. CLM ($3,900): The Blue Jackets have been in a bit of a defensive lull, as noted, and Gardiner is priced for profit. His points per 60 minutes is down to 1.15 from last season's 1.46 mark, despite playing nearly an identical role (22:22 of ice time per game with 2:15 on the power play). There is likely statistical correction ahead, and Gardiner offers cap relief without sacrificing upside.
