3 Cameron Payne PG

Payne failed to score (0-2 FT) but added three assists and a rebound across 20 minutes in Saturday's 124-102 loss to the Nuggets.

Payne had played well off the bench in the Cavs' last two games, so it appears his start was an attempt to take advantage of a hot hand, but this tactic ultimately backfired. One should expect Alec Burks to be back in a starting role very soon.

Payne will start Saturday's game against the Nuggets, Harrison Wind of BSNDenver.com reports.

Payne started 11 of the first 12 games of the season for the Cavaliers, but Saturday marks his first time in the starting lineup since November 17. The 24-year-old has scored 26 points over the last two games (10-17 FG). Payne takes the starting spot of Alec Burks at Denver.

Payne produced 12 points (5-8 FG, 2-3 3Pt), three rebounds, and two assists in 21 minutes during Wednesday's 129-112 loss to the Trail Blazers.

Payne continues to make the most of his opportunity, and he delivered an efficient scoring performance in this one. With that being said, Payne is only a viable option in deeper or daily leagues.

Payne signed a second 10-day contract with the Cavaliers on Wednesday.

The former Murray State star has been rewarded for his solid play for Cavaliers during his brief stint so far. After being waived by the Bulls on Jan.3, Payne is currently averaging 8.3 points and 2.0 assists over the last three games with the Cavaliers.

Payne contributed 10 points (4-8 FG, 2-4 3Pt), three assists and two rebounds across 22 minutes Tuesday in the Cavaliers' 123-115 loss to the Pacers.

After Payne inked a 10-day deal with Cleveland earlier in the week, interim coach Larry Drew wasted no time ushering the guard into the rotation. Payne acquitted himself well in his Cavaliers debut, but it's worth noting that two key wings in Rodney Hood (Achilles) and David Nwaba (ankle) were sidelined, while additional minutes opened up when Larry Nance (knee) exited in the second half. If the Cavaliers get at least two or those players back for Wednesday's game in New Orleans, there's a good chance Payne's minutes dip into the teens, or possibly into the single digits.