The early betting landscape for the Sony Open is shaped by a mix of proven course performers, resurgent talents, and volatile long shots whose prices create specific market opportunities. One of the more intriguing profiles belongs to S.H. Kim, who quietly built momentum through extensive fall play after earning his PGA Tour card via Korn Ferry Tour points. His recent stretch included three straight top 20 finishes on the Korean and Asian Tours, and his Sony Open history is stronger than his odds suggest, with two made cuts and a 12th place finish in 2023. Despite being priced deep in the outright market, his compressed top 20 odds signal sharp respect, making a top 40 position a safer expression of value. Nick Dunlop represents the opposite end of the risk spectrum, carrying both volatility and upside. A year ago he finished tied 10th at this event despite severe driving issues, stringing together four rounds of 68 or better. Since mid 2025, his game has stabilized following technical changes, and his recent results show improved driving accuracy paired with elite underlying skill. That combination makes him a legitimate outright consideration at triple digit odds. Brian Campbell is another name to monitor rather than commit to, having opened with a strong round here last year before withdrawing due to illness. His profile fits courses where accuracy is emphasized, though his outcomes tend to be extreme. Mack Meisner enters with steady upward form, highlighted by a runner up finish at the Wyndham and multiple top 20s late in the season. His comfort in wind, strong Bermuda putting, and consistent ball striking align well with the demands of this venue, justifying outright interest despite modest pricing. Ryan Gerrard brings recent competitive sharpness after a runner up finish in Mauritius that secured his Masters qualification. His ball striking remains a strength, and while his putting is inconsistent, Bermuda surfaces have proven serviceable, making him appealing in head to head markets. Johnny Kiefer’s rise through a historic Korn Ferry Tour season and a strong showing at the RSM underline his long term potential, though pre tournament aggression is tempered by matchup pricing. Veteran considerations include Chris Kirk, whose consistent contention history at this course spans more than a decade, reinforcing the sense that a Sony Open win remains a realistic career outcome. Other notable names such as Denny McCarthy, Nick Taylor, and Rico Hoey present less favorable entry points based on price, form timing, or course history, emphasizing the importance of selectivity in a field defined by subtle edges rather than overwhelming favorites.

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