The 2024 NBA Playoffs continue Saturday with two crucial Game 3s in series that are tied 1-1 after the first two contests. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks start things off in the afternoon before the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers tip off in primetime. Even though there are some big-name stars in these matchups, several role players who come in at a lower price tag in DFS lineups have had big roles in the outcome of the first two games.
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.
Caris LeVert, Cavaliers, $4,600
The Cavaliers guard has come off the bench and delivered through the last three playoff games, topping 30 fantasy points in two outings. Cleveland will continue to preach aggressiveness with LeVert, who has found some openings in Boston’s defense. He remains under the $5k line and role players tend to play better at home, which means he’s worth rostering in Game 3.
Aaron Wiggins, Thunder, $3,900
The Thunder played Wiggins ahead of Josh Giddey in the second half of Game 2 and while that wasn’t enough to win the game, the additional shooting did push Dallas a bit. I don’t think Giddey gets completely removed from the rotation but he might see less playing time in favor of Wiggins. The small forward has been solid when it comes to fantasy production and provides good upside at this price point.
Tim Hardaway Jr., Mavericks, $3,600
Hardaway Jr. rediscovered a bit of his offensive touch in Game 2, tallying 17 points en route to 22 fantasy points in the contest. He hasn’t really been a factor thanks to injuries, but the wing will be important for Dallas going forward to take pressure off the two star guards. At this price, Hardaway Jr. is worth adding to your lineup given his potential to get hot from deep. He’ll also get a boost from the home crowd, which tends to set up a better environment for secondary guys.
Payton Pritchard, Celtics, $4,100
The Celtics backup point guard is a consistent rotation player and his usage is strong. He’s getting decent looks from the perimeter and has also been aggressive in hunting his own shot, setting him up for success in fantasy lineups. Pritchard is averaging 25.9 fantasy points through two games in this series and I’d expect him to continue having a sizable role in Game 3. Add him to your lineup.