Portland Trail Blazers forward Carmelo Anthony has clearly shed a few pounds since the team’s last game in March.
“This summer is Skinny Melo. There’s Hoodie Melo, USA Melo, there’s so many different Melos out there. But at the end of the day, I’m me,” Anthony said, via ESPN.
Since his departure from the New York Knicks in 2017, Anthony has been forced to play at his secondary position, power forward.
Some have argued that Anthony has struggled at the four — chief among them was Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey, who was so upset with Anthony’s performance at the position, he released him from the team.
With big men Jusuf Nurkic and Zach Collins set to come back, Blazers coach Terry Stotts informed Anthony that he’d be returning to his natural position, the three.
For me, I had that in the back of my mind, once coach told me the position that I’d be switching back to the 3. I kind of challenged myself to get down to that weight where I feel comfortable with playing the 3, comfortable running around and utilizing things I can do within our system from playing the 3,” Anthony said.
Not long ago it seemed that Carmelo’s time in the NBA had come to a close, but due to some quality play with the Blazers, his future is anybody’s guess.
When asked what he has planned next, Carmelo answered with an enticing tease.
“I was about to say something but I can’t,” he said with a smile. “We’ll get through this bubble first and I’ll let you know. I’ll keep you posted.”