Bargain Plays: Shumpert to Shine in Garbage Time

Here are the top sleeper options for Wednesday's 11-game NBA slate:

SG Iman Shumpert, Cavaliers (at Hornets)

The Hornets are hurting badly. Beyond big man Al Jefferson, they could be without PG Kemba Walker and are likely missing SG/SF Nicolas Batum on Wednesday, among others. The Cavaliers should have little trouble getting out to an early lead, coasting to a smooth victory.

With Cleveland posting no injuries of its own, Shumpert should get a rise in minutes and productivity. There is no sense risking the health of their starters. Shumpert has not been a viable option, but this is the right time to expect better results than his usual 6.5 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

PG Raul Neto, Jazz (vs. Nuggets)

There are surprisingly few solid discounts at PG on Wednesday. Don't be tempted to roster Mo Williams against Charlotte despite the above endorsement of Cleveland's bench - he hasn't exceeded 10 minutes in the four games he's actually played in 2016. Instead, look to Neto.

Neto will often bust, but with a near-minimum salary, he doesn't need to do a whole lot to return value. He's done enough in two straight against Minnesota and Chicago. He should play between 25 and 30 minutes and could be a fine source of assists and maybe 15 points.

SF Thabo Sefolosha, Hawks (at 76ers)

Sometimes, it's all about the matchup. Sefolosha has played under 20 minutes in each of his last two games, but he should see an uptick against the Sixers' woeful defense. He won't light it up often, but he can fill the stat sheet if he's given enough floor time. Don't expect flash, but don't be surprised if he provides a nice balance to the big names.

PF Boris Diaw, Spurs (vs. Pelicans)

One, the Spurs are automatic at home. Two, Diaw should continue to be relied on more heavily in Tim Duncan's absence with PF LaMarcus Aldridge shifted to the starting center role. Diaw will hover around 20 minutes a game, but he should get closer to the rim and might add a few extra baskets. He's not much of a shot-blocker, but he needs limited counting stats to be effective.

C Timofey Mozgov, Cavaliers (at Hornets)

With Tristan Thompson firmly cemented as the starting C in Cleveland, Mozgov's value has taken a hit. For the same reasons as mentioned with Shumpert, Mozgov is in a fine position Wednesday to gather garbage points off the bench. The Hornets don't have much in the way of big men at the moment, and if Mozgov gets expanded minutes, he'll provide a solid return.