In recent NBA history, no other All-Star has fallen so fast in their prime faster than Carmelo Anthony. Watching him play right now is really depressing and it is taking a toll on him. The 34-year-old prodigy from Baltimore only had one successful game this season - which is uncanny, especially with a player of his calibre. There are a variety of reasons why he isn´t the same player as he was before, but ironically, he has the same skill set that would make him great again.
NBA needs vintage Melo
It is true that basketball is a young mans' game.
However, there are a few guys in recent years that were able to use their experience to their advantage. Players such as Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant are just a few players who were able to flourish considering their age. The good thing about today's NBA is, the physicality of the game is almost eliminated. Which means, Melo can still be effective and use his patented move. Before Kevin Durant, Melo was the most feared scorer in the league and was a part of the epic 2003 Draft Class. Father time might catch him up like everybody else but he still has a lot of gas left in the tank.
Issues signing the former All-Starr
The question lingering around NBA fans right now is, why is there no team willing to sign Carmelo Anthony?
First, NBA teams and their corresponding front office want a long-term investment. In the case of Melo, he can be used as a mentor and a locker room guy, but only for a short period of time. Second, although we are now enjoying a fast pace, an offensive style of the game, each team needs an elite defender. Unfortunately, defence is Meloś Achilles' heels.
Third, Melo's competitiveness has been questioned since his stint with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat
Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady stated on ESPN that it is better for Carmelo Anthony to retire. Mark was adamant about his comment as it saddens him to see Melo being bombarded with negative comments from analysts and players alike.
Stephen A. Smith also chimed in with Melo's situation. He provided two teams that can use his services. The Los Angeles Lakers, which is having a decent record is a probable destination because of LeBron James who is one of Melo's best friends. The Miami Heat is a long shot, but they are lacking a scorer and his best friend with Dwyane Wade too.
Never too late
Lastly, if Carmelo Anthony wants to make a long-lasting impression on his basketball career, this is the perfect time to do it. All he needs is to regain his focus and be more assertive during the game. Derrick Rose is able to do it, after suffering multiple injuries and setback, he is now back in MVP form and is on a scoring target for the last eight games.
