This is the news all sports fans been waiting to hear, Carmelo Anthony will play the remainder of his NBA season with the Portland Trailblazers. Friday afternoon Trailblazer’s President Neil Olshey announced to the media. This opportunity seem like a perfect fit for Melo and his career as he received Western Conference Player of the week honours, averaging 22 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists, not to mention going 3-0. It’s evident that Melo was the missing piece to Portland’s ball club; despite their sluggish start we are starting to see the potential as a contender in the western conference. The Baltimore native spoke about his experiences being away from the game last season and the importance of getting his “Mental Sanity” back. After being exile by the Rockets last season, Melo finished his season as a unsigned free agent. It’s great to see the future hall of fame back on the court.
MELO
Western Conference Player of the Week
“The physical part was going to take care of itself. I was going to stay somewhat fit.”
The transition process hasn’t been much of a challenge for Melo as he accredited that to his personal relationships with All-star guard Damian Lillard and C.J.McCollum. During last season Lillard spoke to the media about his interest on playing with Melo, but management had other plans. This time around there was a greater need for Carmelo, multiple injuries plague the Trailblazers and they needed a player that could contribute to their offense load. Coach Terry Slots spoke highly of Melo prior to acquiring him in early November, Coach Slot encourages Melo to play free and utilize his unique scoring ability to be a threat. Playing with teammates that have genuine respect and admiration for your game can only make your job that much easier on the hardwood.
Rip city
Guard Damian Lillard emphasized the need for Melo.
“Melo, he’s a Hall of Fame player. He knows his game. He’s a smart player. I think it would be crazy to try and put him in a box.”
With his eyes set on “right now”, Melo is very transparent with his vision for the Trailblazers. He intends on finishing the season and playing in the playoffs; in a loaded western conference spots aren’t given, they’re earned. This will not be Melo’s farewell tour, He hopes to find a home here in Rip city as the fans and organization embraced him. Anthony spoke about his level of comfort being in Portland and playing alongside C.J. McCollum and Damian Lillard. They got his back and it shows, during the thanksgiving holiday Damian Lillard Invited Melo over to his home for dinner. The NBA community have shown their gratitude to the Syracuse Alum on his return to the court, last weekend Melo had the chance to face off with his former draft mate and long-time friend LeBron James. Although Melo didn’t win, he reconnected with his basketball fraternity brother. It’s always bigger than basketball! When its all said and done Carmelo Anthony will go down as a hall of famer, joining greats such as Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Karl Malone.
Brotherhood
Carmelo Anthony faces off against LeBron James
Thanks: @ESPN, @Bleacherreport,
Athlete: Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony)