The NBA playoffs head to San Antonio, where the Thunder and Spurs will meet for Game 3. These Western Conference Finals have had a bit of everything so far; big-time shots, physical defense, and last-minute dramatics. Now, Victor Wembanyama ($12,400) and company will hope to earn a win over Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ($10,600) and the defending champs.
Despite the star power on the floor, this game will likely come down to role players. The same is true for fantasy managers filling out their DFS lineups. Snagging an under the radar name or two could make all the difference this evening. Here are two bargains worth heavy consideration in all DFS formats ahead of Friday’s Game 3 showdown.
Set your DraftKings fantasy basketball lineups here: NBA Showdown $400K Shootaround [$100K to 1st] (OKC @ SAS)
C Isaiah Hartenstein, Oklahoma City Thunder ($4,400)
After opening the series with just 12 minutes of playing time, Oklahoma City gave Isaiah Hartenstein more burn in Game 2. He responded with an impressive ten-point, 13-rebound, three-assist performance on Wednesday (30.8 FPTS). Despite a bit of fouling controversy, the center held his own against Wembanyama on defense as well. It’s been a solid postseason for I-Hart; through ten games, he’s averaging 9.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.9 blocks. That level of all-around production boosts the big man’s fantasy floor in a major way.
The Spurs wield one of the NBA’s best defensive units, especially inside the paint. With that being said, this group is somewhat generous down low. San Antonio has given up the tenth-most fantasy points to opposing centers this season. To boot, Hartenstein has had success numerous times in this matchup. In five of his previous six meetings with the Spurs, playoffs included, he’s notched at least eight points and nine rebounds. A similar showing tonight, at just $4,400, is within reach.
PG/SG Jared McCain, Oklahoma City Thunder ($3,600)
We’ll stick with OKC, a team that isn’t shy about leaning on its depth. Arguably the most underrated move of the trade deadline saw the Thunder acquire Jared McCain from Philadelphia. The former first round pick can be streaky, but he possesses massive upside as a scorer. Over ten postseason games, he’s only averaging 7.7 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists. However, McCain is shooting 46.0% from the field and 47.2% from three-point range.
In Game 2, McCain recorded 12 points, six rebounds and three assists (29.5 FPTS). He also logged a postseason-high 26 minutes despite shooting just four-of-14 from the field (28.6% FG). A more efficient performance from the Duke alum should be expected tonight. If his playing time remains above 20 minutes, McCain could deliver another 20+ fantasy point output. Given his dirt-cheap $3,600 price tag, the 22-year-old has massive upside tonight.
