Action in the 2024 NBA Playoffs continues Friday evening with two Game 3s, as the Knicks head to Indianapolis to take on the Pacers while the Nuggets try to get back in their series against the Timberwolves. New York and Minnesota are hoping to grab commanding leads while Indiana and Denver try to make things interesting. In both contests, role players should be impactful enough to carry significant consideration in DFS lineups as value plays.
In NBA DFS, you can find quality value plays $5K or under that can give you a quick 10 points off the bench, grab some rebounds, or stuff the stat sheet. We are going to provide you with three players that you need to put in your lineup.
T.J. McConnell, Pacers, $4,800
Indiana’s backup point guard is making his case for more playing time. McConnell has carried his Game 6 performance against Milwaukee into this series, averaging 31.4 fantasy points per game so far. He’s scoring and distributing at a high clip, effectively leading the Pacers’ bench unit to the point where it has gained a significant edge. As the Knicks continue to deal with injuries, McConnell should keep getting favorable matchups and have high usage. He’s an automatic addition to your lineup at this price.
Naz Reid, Timberwolves, $4,700
Rudy Gobert’s return might mean less playing time for Reid, although the Sixth Man of the Year has shown out through two games. He’s averaging 29.2 fantasy points per game, highlighted by a dominant stretch to close Game 1 before an overall solid showing in Game 2. Role players tend to play better at home and there’s a possibility Minnesota simply keeps blowing Denver out, meaning more playing time for Reid. I like him to continue having a strong series Friday.
Obi Toppin, Pacers, $4,600
Like McConnell, Toppin has also carved out a nice role in this rotation. He’s been a spark off the bench in a big way, tallying 55.3 fantasy points over the first two games at his former arena against his former team. Now the series shifts to Indianapolis, where Toppin most recently put up 36.5 fantasy points as the Pacers closed out the Bucks. New York is down OG Anunoby, which means Toppin should have more space to operate on the wing when the second unit is on the floor. Keep rolling with him in DFS lineups.
Miles McBride, Knicks, $4,200
McBride hasn’t seen much time this series as New York’s rotation got trimmed but he’s almost a lock to play 20+ minutes in Game 3. Anunoby is out and Jalen Brunson is still dealing with an injury even if he does suit up, which means McBride’s ability to score and defend will be needed. Alec Burks is also in line for minutes but the Knicks seem to favor McBride as the second point guard. I’d take a chance on him at this price given his potential role.