NHL DFS Expert Survey: Thursday, January 8th

by Justin Bailey (Jbails26) Last Updated 2026-01-08 18:51:35 Premium Content Part of the product RotoGrinders NHL Premium

Pastrnak of the Bruins

Our panel of experts is here to give you their insights on NHL DFS today for the 1/8 main slate on DraftKings. They’re ready to answer key questions that will assist you in making those crucial lineup-building decisions. Curious who Moneyball16 has as his top overall line stack? Or perhaps you’re wondering about TastefulTides’ favorite play for large-field tournaments? Read their thoughts below!

NHL DFS Picks: DraftKings Expert Survey for Thursday, January 8

Who is your favorite skater to spend up for in cash games?

Moneyball16: Nathan MacKinnon
Joda: Nathan MacKinnon

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What is your preferred tournament format (e.g. large-field, single-entry) to play on this slate? How do you plan to beat that field of opponents? What tactic or strategy will set you apart?

Moneyball16: Large-field GPPs — I think eating the chalk with Colorado is very viable with a good and underrated matchup, but outside of them, I don’t think projected ownership will be a real consideration given the slate size and how much ownership should be spread out after them. I think when it comes to goalies and attacking goalies, it’s very news-dependent. Goalies like Sam Montembeault and Juuse Saros might not seem like good choices but are facing weakened opponents. On the offense side, skaters from Colorado and Nashville look better facing a 3rd-stringer and David Rittich, who is a sizable downgrade from Ilya Sorokin.

Joda: Large-field GPPs are my preferred format tonight. Nathan MacKinnon and the Avalanche are my favorite target. MacKinnon has some high-upside stack partners like Martin Necas and Cale Makar. If you want to save a little salary, utilizing someone like PP1 Brock Nelson ($5,600), PP1 Artturi Lehkonen ($4,700), or even Brent Burns ($3,400) to get more Colorado exposure makes sense. David Pastrnak and Boston are another one of my favorite targets. For under-the-radar stacks, Nashville’s top 6 is worth a look against the Islanders, who have really struggled in their own zone of late.

Who is your favorite play (when considering price, matchup, roster construction, etc.) on the board and why?

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