Carmelo Anthony’s career has been full of ups and downs. Since coming to the league, the former third pick in the 2003 NBA draft has achieved several things, but an NBA championship is not one of them.
In hopes of ending his championship drought, the 37-year-old joined the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this offseason. Following the move, he paired up with his long-time friend LeBron James, who almost forced him to join the team as per Carmelo. Apart from James, the Lakers also have Russell Westbrook and Anthony Davis on the roster, hence forming a super team.
It is quite evident that expectations are high from the purple and gold in the 2021-22 NBA season. The players must be aware of it, but what if they fail to conquer the league? Despite having such a phenomenal team, there’s no guarantee that they will dominate the league.
Carmelo believes if the Lakers fail to win an NBA championship this season, it would be equivalent to Team USA losing in 2004.
“This is probably the most important season ever. I done had important seasons, but this one right here, because I know what’s at stake. It ain’t no pressure, but I know what’s at stake. And if we don’t take advantage of this – you don’t get moments like this in life often. It’s going to be like when Team USA lost in 2004. It’s going to be that feeling. So, we’re going to have to get away for a little bit if we don’t make this happen.”
Anthony is a Team USA legend and the Lakers forward has represented them four times. He has helped the team win a gold medal on three occasions. The only time he failed to do so was in 2004.
It’s a fair comparison, just like that Team USA, the current L.A. Lakers are the favorites to win it all. The only team that has similar star power to the Lakers is the Brooklyn Nets.
The only way they will face the Nets in the postseason is if both teams make it to the NBA Finals.
Apart from that, in the Western Conference, the Lakers should have no trouble coming out as the best team.
