NBA 2K13 just released, and some of us are still fiddling with our lineups trying to get that perfect team for the Association mode. Trying to figure out your starting lineup is only the beginning. What about the role players that, might not be a high-scoring threat, can still help you in those tough situations? That's what Operation Sports is here for today, to help give you the six best role players (in no particular order).


James Harden

This one is pretty much a no-brainer. Harden is an overall 81 overall and he can play point guard, shooting guard, or small forward. He is the epitome of a role player. His defense is above average, but he truly shines on the offensive side of the ball. A handling rating of 83, a 3-point shooting rating of 86, and an inside scoring rating of 87? Yeah, he can get the job done if a starting player is having trouble, or if you just want to give him a shot one game.

Taj Gibson

Gibson is a player who can help you out on both sides of the ball with his 84 block rating, 90 inside scoring rating, and 90 offensive rebounding rating. For some players who are starting an Association, you might already have a power forward / center you feel confident with. His overall rating might only be a 77 -- but don't let that fool you -- Gibson is the best role player at those two positions. He is also great with the hook shot or posting up defenders with his strength and his 84 close shooting rating.

Antawn Jamison

The days of being a star player is a thing of the past for Jamison. He still has a respectable 83 offensive rebound rating and an 80 3-point rating, but he's no longer a player who can carry a team on his back. He can, however, still do the job of getting those crucial rebounds and hitting a big shot on occasions. Just don't expect him to help you win several games in-a-row during your Association. Letting him play about 20%-25% of the time will help with rebounding and if you enjoy the pick & roll, Jamison can run that play with ease.


Ray Allen

Ray Allen, much like Antawn Jamison, has passed his prime as a player who will start and get the majority of minutes at shooting guard. In NBA 2K13, Allen, still has a very good 91 3-point rating. In the cases where you're down three and you need to hit one, Allen is definitely the player who can be subbed in for that. His overall rating might be down from past iterations (79), but he can still provide the necessary spark for your team in those close Association mode games.

Iman Shumpert

Shumpert is not at the level of being a star point guard in the NBA 2K series, but he's darn close. Need a steal to help you get back in the game? With his 89 steal rating, Shumpert is the guy to do just that. He's also not half bad on the offensive end with a 76 3-point rating, and an 80 inside scoring rating. Also, don't expect him to lose the ball too much due to his 84 handling rating. If your starting point guard needs the rest, Shumpert is the perfect player to put in.

Jason Terry

Terry has made a career out of being a dependable role player. In NBA 2K13, that's no different (77 overall). Although he is far from being the best role player, Terry still has the skills With his ability to play shooting guard, and even point guard if need be, Terry can help you go on a run or hit that spot up jump shot, with his 85 3-point rating. Not only that, but he does still posses the speed to blow past certain defenders and finish off the play with his 87 close shooting rating.

You might know someone who you think is a better role player. If so, let us know in the comments below.