The Los Angeles Lakers and Carmelo Anthony were constantly linked prior to Anthony’s return with the Portland Trail Blazers. One of the obvious reasons was LeBron James’ decision to join the Lakers last season. It’s only fitting that the 17-year veterans meet again for the 40th time, including their second matchup in this year’s Western Conference first round.
James could’ve used a veteran like Melo last year, as he lost most of the season to injury and the constant swirl of trade rumors. Despite the Lakers moving forward without bringing him in, LeBron sees no cracks in what the two future Hall of Famers has built over time.
LeBron James says he has no ill-will towards the Lakers for not signing Carmelo Anthony when they had a chance:
"Everything happens for a reason … if he was supposed to be a Laker, he would have been a Laker."
— Christian Rivas (@RadRivas) August 17, 2020
The mutual respect that both teams have for their respective teams is clear. The Trail Blazers took an unconventional path to the post-season while the Lakers exceeded expectations in the Western Conference. The Trail Blazers were hampered by injury all season and are basically masquerading as a very dangerous eight seed. LeBron has the Lakers sitting at the top of the mountain with their eyes on bringing a 17th championship back to Los Angeles. Like LeBron and Anthony Davis, Dame Lillard and Melo look to use their deep playoff experience to their advantages. The series is shaping up to be very entertaining for fans.
