Los Angeles Lakers forward Carmelo Anthony is one of the most decorated players in USA Basketball history. He's been to four Olympic tournaments, bagging the gold medal in three of them.

The single instance Anthony tasted defeat while wearing Team USA's colors was at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. As it turns out, Anthony considers the huge upset for the Americans as a possible endgame for the Lakers this season.

Via MILLION DOLLAZ WORTH OF GAME:

“This is probably the most important season ever. I done had important seasons, but this one right here, because I know what’s at stake. It ain’t no pressure, but I know what’s at stake. And if we don’t take advantage of this – you don’t get moments like this in life often.”

“It’s going to be like when Team USA lost in 2004. It’s going to be that feeling. So, we’re going to have to get away for a little bit if we don’t make this happen.”

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Carmelo Anthony played with Lakers teammate LeBron James at the time. They were considered the future of USA Basketball. Unfortunately, complacency and a slew of other factors reared their ugly heads.

Owing to a massive offseason haul, the Lakers are being touted as the team to beat in 2021-22. Anthony, Russell Westbrook, Rajon Rondo, Dwight Howard, and DeAndre Jordan have relocated to Hollywood.

It's easy to fall into the trap of becoming lackadaisical and opt to flip the switch come playoff time. However, the Lakers possess a veteran-laden crew who knows how to win. Then again, one can argue that it's championship or bust season in Los Angeles.