The Melo renaissance continues. After a year-long absence, Portland Trail Blazers forward Carmelo Anthony hasn't wasted any time returning to form. Anthony was named Western Conference Player of the Week for his performance with his new team.
Anthony reacted on Instagram, posting a photo of his smiling face enveloped by his signature hoodie.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5lfj9HgKfj/
During the 2017 offseason Anthony, then a Knick, waived his no-trade clause to join Russell Westbrook and Paul George in Oklahoma City. After a rocky season, Anthony was traded to—and subsequently bought out by—the Atlanta Hawks. He signed a one-year contract with the Houston Rockets, but by mid-November, general manager Daryl Morey announced that the team and Anthony would be parting ways—and thus began year-long exile.
Just over one year (and countless workout videos) later, Anthony signed a non-guaranteed deal with the Trailblazers. In his debut, a 115–104 road loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on November 19, he started and had 10 points on 4-of-14 shooting, to go along with 4 rebounds and 1 block, but was -20 in 24 minutes of play.
However, he bounced back to average 22.3 points, 7.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists this week, and the Blazers are 3-0 during that span.
Some have objected to Anthony's selection, pointing out that both James Harden and Luka Doncic posted better stats over the same timeframe. Harden averaged 42 points with eight assists and six rebounds, while Doncic had 35/9/8.
The NBA likely determined that Anthony performing well without the benefit of training camp, or even the first month of the season, warranted recognition. Additionally, Harden and Doncic will both be in the MVP conversation this season, and will have plenty of opportunities to win player of the week. Harden has already won it twice, while Doncic one the week before Anthony.
The Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo won Eastern Conference Player of the Week, his second time this season.
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