Lakers Rumors

Report: Carmelo Anthony Won’t Play Friday vs. Lakers Due to Continued Grievance Over Kobe’s Death

Published by
Justin Benjamin

The death of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant continues to sadden and sideline the NBA.

As a matter of fact, Portland Trail Blazers newcomer Carmelo Anthony won’t play against the Lakers on Friday night due to the emotions associated with Bryant’s tragic passing.

Bryant died at the age of 41 in a helicopter crash that killed nine people on Sunday.

While the Lakers were scheduled to play against the Los Angeles Clippers this past Tuesday, the NBA wisely decided to postpone that contest.

Anthony, 35, looked up to and loved Bryant a ton. In addition to their brotherhood, the pair battled in playoff matches and other competitions throughout their time together in the league.

The forward has had a resurgent season with the Blazers after being separated from the league last year. Anthony is putting up 15.8 points and 6.7 rebounds per game this season.

The Lakers will take the floor on Friday night for the first time since hearing about Bryant’s death.

Justin Benjamin

Justin’s enormous respect for LeBron James has ignited him to write for the King and Lakers. His all-around analysis and heart for the game has made him a stellar NBA writer and proud staff writer for Lakers Daily.

Published by
Justin Benjamin

Recent Posts

Shaq criticizes Lakers for playing ‘hero ball’ in Game 5 loss: ‘I’m super disappointed’

Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal was critical of the team following L.A.’s Game 5…

April 30, 2026

LeBron claps back at haters who bring up Draymond’s suspension in 2016 Finals: ‘He was there for 6 and 7’

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has won four titles in his NBA career, but…

April 29, 2026

How Luka Doncic’s custody battle may hint at his impending return vs. the Thunder

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic has been out of the lineup since early April…

April 28, 2026

Report: Lakers among teams with ‘varying degrees of interest’ in potential Kevin Durant trade

The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly are one of several teams that would have interest in…

April 27, 2026

Ron Harper goes after LeBron yet again: ‘He know how to find me’

The Los Angeles Lakers' Game 3 win over the Houston Rockets on Friday night featured…

April 26, 2026

Present and former Lakers praise LeBron’s clutch gene after big Game 3

Behind the heroics of a 41-year-old LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers got a huge…

April 25, 2026