NBA Rumors: Should LeBron James Recruit Carmelo Anthony In 2020 Free Agency?
The successful acquisition of Anthony Davis and other quality veterans last summer has undeniably turned the Los Angeles Lakers from one of the worst NBA teams into a legitimate title contender in the deep Western Conference. However, despite being considered one of the top favorites to win the championship title in the 2019-20 season, the Lakers still have issues to address on their roster, including their need of another shot creator and playmaker.
The Lakers may not have the salary cap flexibility to chase big names in free agency, but there are plenty of quality veterans that could help them solve one of their major weaknesses. Some of these vets are expected to be available at a discounted price, including Carmelo Anthony of the Portland Trail Blazers.
According to Fadeaway World, LeBron James may consider recruiting Anthony to the Lakers when he becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer.
“Carmelo Anthony’s friendship with LeBron James has been long discussed and documented. They’ve been incredibly close since before making it to the league and the King even advocated for him to get a deal with the Lakers this season. Next year will likely be their last chance to team up before retirement and the Lakers are likely going to move some of their role players for salary cap purposes. Thus, Anthony could find its way to the Staples Center to try and win a chip with his closest friend in the league.”
Since being selected as the No. 1 and No. 3 overall picks in the 2003 NBA Draft, James and Anthony have built a strong relationship on and off the court. Though they’ve spent most of their careers going up against one other, James and Anthony have also dreamed of playing together on one team before they officially retire. With his influence on the Lakers’ front office, James undeniably has the power of turning their dream into reality in the 2020 offseason.
Anthony may no longer be in his prime, but he would still be a great addition to the Lakers, giving them a very reliable scoring option in their second unit. This season, Anthony has managed to put up decent numbers, averaging 15.3 points and 6.3 rebounds while shooting 42.6 percent from the field and 37.1 percent from beyond the arc. With the years he spent serving as the main man in Denver and New York, Anthony would definitely help the Lakers address their need of another shot creator and playmaker who could step up when James needs to rest or in the event he suffers an injury. However, if he wanted to team up with close pal James in Los Angeles, Anthony should be willing to accept a veteran minimum deal in free agency.
