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Chelsea and West Ham will face off in a Wednesday evening London derby. We take a look at picks to consider for DraftKings’ Showdown game below.
Set your DraftKings lineups here: EPL Showdown $80K Counter Attack [$20K to 1st] (WHU vs CHE)
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Captain
Willian ($16,200)
Willian has been an inspired figure on this Chelsea team. First, let’s start with the intangible advantage. He is the designated penalty-taker for Chelsea. With VAR becoming so crucial, that could be a vital factor. He benefited from just that against Manchester City after VAR overturned the on-field decision after Fernandinho handled the ball. That, in itself, might make him a productive choice for Captain.
Others to consider: Mason Mount ($13,800)
High-priced flex options
Mason Mount ($9,200)
Chelsea’s youngsters have been simply terrific this season. Despite a transfer ban, Chelsea has competed and challenged the best in the league. Mount is one of those players. He has scored six goals to go along with four assists this season and has the ability to use his speed and decisiveness to add to either of those tallies.
Christian Pulisic ($10,000)
An important disclaimer to start: Pulisic is listed as questionable with a calf injury and manager Frank Lampard has indicated he will be a game-time decision. If he does start, he might be a required addition after his performance against Manchester City. He scored a fantastic goal, capitalizing on an error from Benjamin Mendy. He would have had a brace had he not hit the post in the second half.
Tammy Abraham ($8,200)
Fitness issues might plausibly be the reason for Abraham starting Chelsea’s recent games on the bench since the return of the EPL. He has still been Chelsea’s most prolific goal-scorer this season, with 13 and it won’t be long before he returns to the starting XI.
Others to consider: Jarrod Bowen ($8,600).
Value flex options
Marcos Alonso ($8,000)
Alonso is one of the more attacking defenders in the top flight of English soccer. He routinely finds himself swinging crosses into the box for Chelsea’s front men from the left flank. He has scored four goals this season along with two assists with just that modus operandi. That’s how he has generated 12.6 DKFP per game, second highest on this slate.
Cesar Azpilicueta ($6,800)
While Alonso is in charge of the left flank, Azpilicueta takes over down the right wing. Chelsea’s preferred method is based on an aggressive style, which means its defenders move into attacking positions on either wing. Azpilicueta has managed five assists so far this season, including two against Aston Villa in the team’s first game this month. Also, it’s hard to see West Ham scoring more than a goal.
Others to consider: Kepa Arrizabalaga ($7,600).
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Nikhil Kalro is the Founder and CEO of Altletics Esports.