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NY Knicks: How a reunion could have added to Carmelo Anthony’s Legacy

By Allen Settle

SYRACUSE, NY - FEBRUARY 23: Former Syracuse Orange player Carmelo Anthony (C) receives his jersey from athletic director Daryl Gross (L) as his number is retired during a ceremony at half time during the game against the Georgetown Hoyas at the Carrier Dome on February 23, 2013 in Syracuse, New York. (Photo by Nate Shron/Getty Images)
SYRACUSE, NY - FEBRUARY 23: Former Syracuse Orange player Carmelo Anthony (C) receives his jersey from athletic director Daryl Gross (L) as his number is retired during a ceremony at half time during the game against the Georgetown Hoyas at the Carrier Dome on February 23, 2013 in Syracuse, New York. (Photo by Nate Shron/Getty Images) /
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NY Knicks, Kyle Lowry, Carmelo Anthony, Spencer Dinwiddie
NY Knicks, Kyle Lowry, Carmelo Anthony, Spencer Dinwiddie (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

Recent reports have emerged that the New York Knicks were seriously interested in an offseason reunion with former franchise cornerstone Carmelo Anthony. This would have been a fascinating revelation for a Knicks team that has their sights set squarely on postseason success in 2021-2022 and beyond.

Ultimately, Anthony elected to join the Western Conference powerhouse Los Angels Lakers for what will be his 19th season in the NBA. The 10-time All-Star, who has yet to add an NBA title to his NCAA Championship and three Olympic Gold Medals, now has the second-best odds in the league to earn his first ring.

It is easy to understand why Melo would choose the Lakers over the Knicks. The Knicks’ upcoming season would be a great success if they were to earn a berth in the second round. While they are much improved, it would be a shocking development to see the Knicks surpass Eastern Conference powerhouses like the Bucks, 76ers, and crosstown Nets.

The Lakers, on the other hand, gave the former superstar a chance to join his longtime friend LeBron James on a stacked roster with their sights set on an NBA Championship. Melo will occupy a bench role with stars like James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook leading the way.

However, a reunion with New York could have had a tangible effect on Anthony’s overall legacy. This is primarily true in terms of where the star’s jersey will reside after his career. Will the Knicks add it to the nine jerseys currently immortalized in Madison Square Garden? Could he become the eighth Denver Nugget to receive the honor? Or will the time split between franchises cause its primary residence to be his own personal rack? Let’s discuss!

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