The Los Angeles Lakers return home to take on the Phoenix Suns in a pivotal Game 3 with the series level 1-1. The Lakers will be welcoming fans back for playoff basketball for the first time since the 2012-13 season, adding an additional element to the game. Devin Booker will look to continue his playoff ascent, while LeBron James and Anthony Davis try to keep building chemistry after missing time due to injuries. Here’s the best bets for the DraftKings DFS Showdown for Lakers-Suns Game 3.
Captain’s Picks
James ($17,400) is always a strong candidate to deliver on his price point, but Davis ($16,800) might be the better option here. He’s averaging seven less fantasy points than James, but at a slightly lesser cost and appears to be back in a groove after breaking out in Game 2. The big man is a good bet to deliver at home in a favorable matchup.
FLEX Plays
Mikal Bridges ($6,600) and Jae Crowder ($5,000) offer tremendous value at their respective price points, given LA will likely give more attention to Booker ($9,600) and Chris Paul ($9,000). Both are strong perimeter shooters and should see a lot of looks. The only question will be whether they will convert after going 3-10 from the perimeter in Game 2.
Fades
Kyle Kuzma at $6,000 is an option to stay away from. He’s averaging 20 minutes per game and has taken six shots total in the series. The Lakers will eventually need him to be a contributor, but the touches aren’t there. Cameron Payne ($5,400) has been an amazing story for the Suns this year, but he’s not likely to repeat his Game 2 performance even if Paul is restricted due a shoulder injury.
The Outcome
Based on the first two contests, this should be another close game. James and Davis are still going to face their ups and downs as they build chemistry playing together and the Lakers haven’t had much success outside those two stars. Booker, Paul and Deandre Ayton ($7,800) have the Suns believing they should win the series and that willpower is enough to elevate their talent levels. Expect a high-scoring, relatively close contest for much of the game before the Lakers create separation late for the win.
Final score: Lakers 116, Suns 106