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New York Knicks: NBA Offseason Power Rankings

By Maurice Moton

Mar 23, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) reacts after a basket against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) reacts after a basket against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) as a timeout is called against the Golden State Warriors during the third quarter in game five of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena.
Apr 27, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) as a timeout is called against the Golden State Warriors during the third quarter in game five of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 20: Houston Rockets

Say all the negative things possible about head coach Mike D’Antoni, but his fast-paced offense suits James Harden’s play style. The Houston Rockets won’t stop a lot of teams on the defensive end, but they’ll score enough points to blow out low-scoring opposition like the Thunder.

The Rockets also have depth with Corey Brewer, Eric Gordon and Nene Hilario coming off the bench. With D’Antoni encouraging Harden to push the pace, Houston will surprise some teams in the upcoming season.

No. 19: Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks have a fragile starting lineup featuring an older Dirk Nowitzki, Deron Williams at the tail end of his career and Andrew Bogut who’s battled several injuries over the past few seasons.

Harrison Barnes brings consistency, but he’s not a go-to player in clutch situations at the moment. Fortunately, Wesley Matthews recovered from an Achilles injury to put together a solid campaign in the previous year. If healthy, this team moves up a few spots, but conventional wisdom says they’re a borderline playoff team.

Next: Nos. 17-18

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