A lot of attention was given to the Los Angeles Lakers transactions this NBA offseason. They will be one of the oldest teams in the history of the NBA, as Rob Pelinka loaded up on veterans that are looking to win a ring and the Lakers provide one of the best chances at doing so.
There were a lot of familiar names on the list of players that signed with Los Angele this offseason, but arguably the biggest free-agent pick-up was Carmelo Anthony. While not the All-Star caliber player he once was, Anthony proved he can still produce during his tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers.
After seemingly being blackballed from the NBA and essentially missing a season of his career, Anthony played well the last two seasons in Portland. He appeared in 127 games, averaging 28.3 minutes per game.
Anthony could still fill it up, averaging 14.3 points per game, knocking down 39.9 percent of his 3-point attempts. The 40.9 percent that he shot this past season was a career-high.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Carmelo Anthony Sounds Fully Bought In After Joining Lakers
That scoring is certainly something that the Lakers will need to help them get to where they want to be this season. One NBA scout believes Carmelo Anthony and his scoring ability are perfect for Los Angeles. Here is what the scout said to NBA Analysis Network’s own Evan Massey.
“What were the Lakers missing last season? More perimeter shooting, a guy who could create his own shot and take pressure off of LeBron (James) and AD. Melo fits both of those roles and is exactly the piece L.A. needed to bring in.”
The Lakers were hopeful that Dennis Schroder would help provide that last season, but he didn’t step up when they needed it most. Anthony will help with that, likely coming off the bench with the second unit.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Carmelo Anthony Sounds Fully Bought In After Joining Lakers
Carmelo Anthony will be a consistent source of scoring for the Los Angeles Lakers off the bench, something they certainly needed more of. He will be a key piece of their rotation and it wouldn’t be shocking if he won them a handful of games on nights that he heats up shooting the ball.