The 2024 NBA Playoffs continue Wednesday evening with Game 5 action. The Boston Celtics hope to secure a spot in the conference finals when they face the Cleveland Cavaliers, while the Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks both search for a 3-2 edge in that series. There’s tons of star power but role players have had big showings in both series so far. Which will be the best value plays in DFS lineups tonight?
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 four players that you need to put in your lineup.
Lu Dort, Thunder, $4,800
Dort broke out a bit in Game 4, tallying 30.5 fantasy points for the Thunder as they leveled the series 2-2. The versatile small forward continues to create problems for the Mavericks defensively, while also showing consistency with his perimeter shot. Even though he’s unlikely to replicate what was his best fantasy showing in the playoffs so far, I think Dort is worth rostering in DFS lineups given his playing time.
Payton Pritchard, Celtics, $4,000
Donovan Mitchell is out again for Cleveland, which means there’s a possibility this turns into a blowout for the Celtics. Pritchard would see some extended run in that scenario, but he’s a good addition to your lineup even if the game remains close. The point guard has been solid in home games during this series, combining for 51.8 fantasy points in Games 1 and 2. He should maintain that form in Game 5.
Dean Wade, Cavaliers, $3,500
As noted above, Mitchell is out. Jarrett Allen is unlikely to play, and Caris LeVert is also questionable. That means the Cavaliers don’t have many options available when it comes to rounding out the rotation. Isaac Okoro ($3,800) is also in consideration but I’ll back Wade given his ability to hit the three-point shot with more frequency.
Derrick Jones Jr., Mavericks, $4,400
Jones Jr. logged 30.3 fantasy points in Game 4, his best performance of the postseason. Even though the Thunder rank just seventh in fantasy points allowed to opposing forwards, the Mavericks are backing Jones Jr. as a versatile defender who can also be a lob threat. His playing time has been consistent and if he can hit a few perimeter shots, he should come close to replicating his Game 4 output tonight.