2013-14 NBA Preview: 10 Teams Best Suited To Play Small Ball

3. New York Knicks

May 18, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) stands on the free throw line against the Indiana Pacers in game six of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Pacers won 106-99. Mandatory Credit: Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports

Like Durant, Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks can score from almost any position on the court. Though he naturally plays the small forward position, he can easily slide over to power forward. Anthony can shoot the three-ball, post-up and drive to the basket at will. Next season, having him play the power forward position may benefit the Knicks in the long run.

Metta World Peace can share small forward and backcourt duties with Raymond Felton, Pablo Prigioni, Iman Shumpert and J.R. Smith. The Knicks have a lot of size in their guards so even when they play small ball, they can match up with larger, more physical backcourt players.

Lastly, Andrea Bargnani can slide over to center and create mismatch nightmares. Like a poor man’s Nowitzki, Bargnani is a seven footer that can shoot the three-ball. His ability to spread the floor is a valuable asset for a team like the Knicks to have. Tyson Chandler, their starting center, is only effective within three feet from the rim, so having a player like Bargnani can really benefit the vast number of shooters on the Knicks roster.