New York Knicks: Players Who Must Step Up Against Indiana Pacers

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Dec 9, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) looks to pass against the Sacramento Kings during the second quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Carmelo Anthony

Position: Small Forward
Games Played: 26 of 27
2016-17 Slash Line: .429/.336/.866
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.2 MPG, 22.3 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.9 3PM

The New York Knicks have a unique individual in star small forward Carmelo Anthony. There aren’t many players who can create offense from any spot on the floor, but Anthony is that special breed who can’t be put in a box.

Anthony has been struggling to get comfortable with his new role in New York, but he remains one of the most dynamic scorers in NBA history.

Tuesday’s game against the Indiana Pacers will be the perfect platform for Anthony to truly break out in 2016-17. He’ll square off against a fellow All-NBA small forward in Paul George and face the challenge of proving he’s still elite.

If Anthony is able to prove as much against the Pacers, then the Knicks should be able to secure a victory over their bitter rivals.

Anthony is coming off of a game during which he scored 29 points on 10-of-14 shooting, which creates positive momentum. George, however, has scored at least 26 points in back-to-back games and only seems to be getting more confident.

In other words: Madison Square Garden could be in for a clash of the Eastern Conference titans when Anthony and George go toe-to-toe on Tuesday.

Must Read: Revisiting the storied rivalry with the Indiana Pacers

For the Knicks to win, Anthony must reestablish his place as one of the best players in the NBA.

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