NBA Playoffs: 5 difference-makers who could heat up in the postseason

Portland Trail Blazers Carmelo Anthony (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)
Portland Trail Blazers Carmelo Anthony (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)
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Carmelo Anthony Year 17
NBA Portland Trail Blazers Carmelo Anthony (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

NBA players that could catch fire in the playoffs: Carmelo Anthony, Portland Trail Blazers

We know that Carmelo Anthony is one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. Even though he comes off the bench he can still get hot and make it rain on any given night. The Portland Trail Blazers will need Anthony to lead their second unit and be that spark off the bench that can give them a definite edge.

Anthony could even make a spot start if needed depending on the matchups and is capable of playing starter’s minutes. Also included is the fact that Anthony is in pursuit of that elusive championship that would solidify his legacy. That should be sufficient motivation to fuel his fire as the Blazers will need solid production from him in order to advance in a tough Western Conference.

Coming on the floor with the second unit allows Anthony to play his style of basketball while taking over offensively while Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum go to the bench. Anthony is also a valuable asset to have on the floor with the starters in crunch time as another scoring option and a shooter that the defense must account for and can’t afford to neglect or leave open.

Anthony could be that difference maker in deciding if the Blazers make a deep run in these playoffs.