New York Knicks: Carmelo Anthony Is A True Leader

Building Chemistry

Entering the 2015-16 season, Carmelo Anthony wasn’t regarded by many as a great leader. That painted a troubling picture for the New York Knicks, as Kristaps Porzingis and Jerian Grant were the faces of a generally young and inexperienced roster.

As this narrative took center stage, Anthony quietly rounded up his teammates and took them to Puerto Rico for a team-building experience.

Keep in mind, the Knicks entered the 2015-16 season with nine new players.

Players such as Lou Amundson, Kyle O’Quinn, Kevin Seraphin, and Lance Thomas all jumped to Anthony’s defense when his leadership was questioned. All four spoke extensively about what it is that the media doesn’t see from Anthony as a leader.

Thomas elaborated upon the importance of the trip to Puerto Rico, per Ian Begley of ESPN New York.

"“That’s definitely leadership,” Lance Thomas, one of the Knicks in Puerto Rico for the workouts, said. “Him putting us in a position where we can start the season before the season starts is big time. Getting to know everybody on the squad, everybody becoming familiar with each other, it’s important.” We were like a band of brothers out there,” Thomas said."

A team trip to Puerto Rico may not be a traditional form of leadership, but developing chemistry and trust is paramount in a team sport.

Anthony’s willingness to get to know his teammates on a personal level helps bring the locker room together. Now with a veteran team, his ability to connect with established talent can only help the Knicks build chemistry.

Though some may still have questions or concerns, the fact that Anthony was willing to get his team out of its element to build new relationships is quite impressive.

Next: The Mentor