Top DraftKings US Open Picks for Cash and GPP Contests

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13 min read
iconOct 14, 2024, 10:31 AMicon
Author
Nick Ashbourne
Nick Ashbourne
Senior Writer
Last Updated: Oct 17, 2024, 8:09 AM
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Tournament Preview

The US Open, one of golf's four major championships, is a prestigious event on the PGA Tour. 

This year, the tournament will be held at the Pinehurst Resort & C.C., marking a significant moment in the event's history. The US Open typically takes place in June, challenging the world's top golfers with its notoriously difficult course setups.

The country club hosting this year's US Open promises to test players' skills across all aspects of their game. 

From demanding tee shots to challenging greens, the course will require precision and strategy. 

As one of the most anticipated tournaments of the season, the US Open attracts a strong field of competitors, all vying for the coveted title and a place in golf history.

Key Information

  • Event: US Open (Major Championship)
  • Date: Mid-June
  • Venue: Pinehurst Resort & C.C.
  • Format: 72-hole stroke play

The 2023 US Open at the Los Angeles Country Club

The 2023 US Open marked a significant milestone as the Los Angeles Country Club made its debut with Wyndham Clark winning. 

This prestigious venue presented a unique challenge for the world's top golfers. The North Course at the country club, designed by George C. Thomas Jr. and recently restored by Gil Hanse, promises to test every aspect of a player's game.

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The Los Angeles Country Club's North Course is known for its challenging par-3s and risk-reward par-5s, which prove pivotal in determining the champion.

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, this course features a mix of long and short holes, elevation changes, and strategically placed bunkers. 

The par-70 layout stretches over 7,200 yards, with bentgrass greens and kikuyu grass fairways typical of Southern California. Players had to navigate the course's undulating fairways and complex green complexes, making accurate tee shots with precise approach play crucial for success.

Historical US Open Performance and Its Impact on Betting

When considering bets or DraftKings selections for the US Open, historical performance in this major can provide valuable insights.

The US Open is known for its challenging setups, often favoring certain types of players over others. Analyzing past results can reveal trends and patterns that may influence current betting strategies.

Over the past decade, several players have shown consistent success at the US Open. These golfers often possess a combination of accuracy off the tee, strong iron play, and the mental fortitude to handle the pressure of major championship golf.

Players who have previously won a US Open title or consistently finished as a runner-up may be worth considering, as they have proven their ability to compete under the tournament's unique conditions.

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In the last 20 years, only one player has won the US Open in consecutive years, highlighting the difficulty of repeating as champion in this major.

It's important to note that while historical performance can be indicative, course setup and current form also play crucial roles. 

The US Open's rotating venue means that players may face very different challenges from year to year. However, those who have demonstrated the ability to adapt to various US Open setups may have an edge, regardless of the specific course.

Responsible Gambling Tip
While historical data can be informative, avoid placing bets solely based on past performance. Consider current form and course-specific factors as well.

Key Stats and Strategy

When considering bets for DraftKings golf contests during the US Open, several key statistics can provide valuable insights. 

Strokes Gained: Off the Tee and Strokes Gained: Around the Green are particularly important given the typical US Open course setup. Additionally, accuracy off the tee and strong putting on fast greens are crucial for success.

StatisticImportanceExample 
SG: Off the TeeHighJordan Spieth +0.8
SG: Around the GreenHighAdam Hadwin +0.6
Driving AccuracyMediumJustin Rose 70%

Current form and past performance in major championships, especially the US Open, should also factor into decision-making. 

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Whatever rationale you are using to make betting decisions, set a budget for your US Open betting and stick to it. Never wager more than you can afford to lose.

Players who have shown the ability to handle the pressure of majors and perform well in difficult conditions often have an advantage in this tournament.

Top Picks for Cash and GPP Contests

When selecting players for DraftKings contests during the US Open, it's important to differentiate between cash games and Guaranteed Prize Pool (GPP) tournaments. Cash games require consistency, while GPPs reward upside and unique lineup construction.

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For cash games, it can be beneficial to focus on players with high floors - those who consistently make cuts and finish in the top 25.

Look for golfers with strong all-around games who can navigate the challenges of a US Open course. 

In GPPs, consider players with winning upside who may be lower-owned, potentially providing a unique advantage if they perform well.

Past US Open champions often perform well in subsequent years due to their experience with the tournament's unique challenges. Consider their odds and recent form when making selections.

Value Plays and Sleepers

Identifying value plays and sleepers can be crucial for success in DraftKings contests for the US Open. 

Look for underpriced players who have shown good form in recent tournaments or have a history of performing well in major championships.

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Consider players who excel in specific areas that are crucial for US Open success, such as accuracy off the tee or strong play around the greens.

Also, pay attention to players who have performed well in similar conditions or on courses with comparable setups to the Pinehurst Resort & C.C.

Stat to Watch: Performance in the last eight starts leading up to the US Open can be a strong indicator of a player's current form and potential for success.

Lineup Construction and Management

When constructing lineups for DraftKings contests during the US Open, balance is key. 

Aim to include a mix of high-priced stars and value plays and consider the scoring system, which rewards not just the final position but also birdies, eagles, and streaks.

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Managing your lineups throughout the tournament is crucial. Stay informed about weather conditions, which can significantly impact scoring, especially for players with early or late tee times.

Be prepared to make adjustments based on the latest information and first-round results.

Responsible Gambling Tip
Don't chase losses by increasing your bets or entering more contests than planned. Stick to your predetermined strategy.

Contest Selection and Entry Strategy

DraftKings offers a variety of contest types for the US Open, including large-field GPPs, smaller tournaments, cash games, and head-to-head matches. 

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Your contest selection should align with your bankroll management strategy and risk tolerance.

For those new to DraftKings or US Open betting, starting with smaller, single-entry contests can be a good way to gain experience. 

As you become more comfortable, you can expand into multi-entry GPPs or higher-stakes cash games. Remember that the level of competition can vary significantly between contest types.

Contest Types
  • GPPs: Large fields, high risk/reward
  • Double-Ups: Win if you finish in top half
  • Head-to-Head: Direct competition against one other player

How to Make Picks

When making your final picks for US Open contests on DraftKings, consider all the factors discussed earlier: player form, course fit, statistical performance, and potential value plays. 

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Remember that the US Open can be unpredictable, with challenging course setups often leading to surprising leaderboards. 

While it's important to consider favorites and top-ranked players, don't be afraid to take calculated risks on lower-ranked players who could provide significant value.

Conclusion

Betting on the US Open through DraftKings contests can enhance the excitement of watching this major golf championship. 

By considering key statistics, understanding different contest types, and employing thoughtful lineup construction strategies, you can improve your chances of success.

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Remember that sports betting should be approached responsibly and within your means.

Enjoy the tournament, appreciate the skill of the world's top golfers as they tackle one of the most challenging tests in golf, and may your informed decisions lead to a positive experience.

The information provided in this guide is for educational purposes only. Always gamble responsibly and be aware of the risks involved in sports betting.

FAQ

Golf Contest Scoring

How does scoring work for golf contests on DraftKings?

DraftKings awards points for finishing position, holes played, birdies, eagles, and streak bonuses. Bogeys and worse result in negative points.

Changing Lineups

Can I change my lineup after the tournament starts?

Once a contest begins, you cannot change your lineup. Make sure to finalize your selections before the first tee time.

Player Withdrawals

What happens if a player in my lineup withdraws during the tournament?

If a player withdraws after starting the tournament, they keep any points earned up to that point. If they withdraw before starting, they typically score zero points.

Ties

How do ties affect scoring and payouts in DraftKings golf contests?

Ties are broken based on DraftKings' tiebreaker rules, which usually consider the number of birdies and eagles scored.

Multiple-Use Lineups

Can I enter the same lineup in multiple contests?

Yes, you can enter the same lineup in multiple contests on DraftKings, allowing you to leverage a strong lineup across different contest types and prize pools.

<p>Nick has been fascinated with sports since he was first taken to a Toronto Maple Leafs game in 1998, and he's been writing about them professionally since 2014.</p><p>Nick has covered baseball and hockey for outlets like The Athletic, Sportsnet, and Yahoo Sports while growing his expertise in sports data analysis and research.&nbsp;</p><p>Between 2022 and 2023, he worked for a betting startup called NorthStar Bets. In 2024, he contributed to Oddspedia before joining the RG team.</p>
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Nick Ashbourne
Nick Ashbourne
Senior Writer

Nick has been fascinated with sports since he was first taken to a Toronto Maple Leafs game in 1998, and he's been writing about them professionally since 2014.

Nick has covered baseball and hockey for outlets like The Athletic, Sportsnet, and Yahoo Sports while growing his expertise in sports data analysis and research. 

Between 2022 and 2023, he worked for a betting startup called NorthStar Bets. In 2024, he contributed to Oddspedia before joining the RG team.

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Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.

Anna Kravtcova
Anna Kravtcova
Problem Gambling Expert

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