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By average DraftKings fantasy points (DKFP) per game, Michael Thomas ($9,300) and DeAndre Hopkins ($7,700) enter DraftKings’ four-game NFL slate this weekend as the two top fantasy performers at WR. Thomas has been more productive, averaging 25 DKFP per game, while Hopkins is averaging 19 DKFP per game. However, the difference in production is reflected in their salaries, as Hopkins is $1,600 cheaper than Thomas. Taking into account salary along with production, let’s examine which WR would benefit benefit fantasy owners the most on DraftKings’ four-game NFL slate, which locks at 4:25 p.m. ET on Saturday.
Fantasy football analysis: Saints WR Michael Thomas, Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins
Thomas is set for a home matchup indoors in passing-friendly New Orleans against a Vikings pass defense that was vulnerable against WR during the regular season, allowing the seventh most DKFP to WR. Thomas had explosive fantasy numbers in home games, averaging 31 DKFP per game at New Orleans, compared to 20 DKFP per game on the road. Thomas’ home production was on the back of 11 catches per game and 128 receiving yards per game at New Orleans. Six of Thomas’ nine receiving TDs were also in home games.
Unlike Thomas, Hopkins did not have notable home/road splits, and Hopkins draws a much more difficult assignment against a tough Bills defense that limited WR to the fifth fewest DKFP during the regular season.
Thomas is more appealing than Hopkins both on a per dollar basis and total fantasy points basis given the matchups. Unless fantasy owners are looking to go contrarian and find a lower-owned option in tournaments, Thomas is in line to be the better play this weekend on DraftKings.
DFS Recommendation
Start Michael Thomas over DeAndre Hopkins on DraftKings
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