5 Knicks role players who will never be forgotten for their services

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 07 : Charlie Ward #21 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center on December 7, 2002 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) /

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Anthony Mason, New York Knicks. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images) /

3. Anthony Mason

Despite only playing five years with the Knicks, Anthony Mason was a very important player during his tenure with the team. He helped Patrick Ewing make the finals in 1994, while also being a key member of several deep playoff runs.

After having a long, tough journey into the NBA, Mason finally came into his own after signing with New York in 1991 and he became one of the toughest players in the entire league. During his five seasons with the Knicks, Mason averaged 9.9 PPG, 7.7 RPG, and 2.6 APG, winning the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 1995.

Mason never shied away from big moments in the playoffs either, racking up ten 15+ point playoff performances during his time with the Knicks. While this may not be the most impressive, it is worth noting that Mason was more of a defender than anything.

In addition to his play, Mason was part of a huge trade to the Charlotte Hornets that brought Larry Johnson to New York in 1996, who, as we know, was one of the biggest parts of the Knicks’ aforementioned 1999 finals run.