A game-winning shot by Carmelo Anthony offered his close friend, Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, a chance to call out critics who claimed that both he and Anthony were washed up.
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Anthony connected for his clutch shot with four seconds left in the game on Tuesday night to help the Portland Trail Blazers defeat the Toronto Raptors, 101-99.
Anthony, who had been out of basketball since early last year, was signed by the Trail Blazers in November.
Since joining Portland, Anthony has played in 23 games and is averaging 16.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game. Against Toronto, Anthony scored 28 points, grabbed seven rebounds and collected two steals on the night.
Prior to his signing, the 35-year-old Anthony had bounced around the NBA in recent years with multiple teams, signaling that his career might be coming to an end.
So far this season, Anthony has proven that he still has a lot left in the tank.
James’ satisfaction comes in part from dealing with his own critics, who saw his injury-plagued 2018-19 season as a sign that his career was also on the decline.
Playing in just 55 contests last year, James’ injuries played a large part in the the Lakers missing the postseason.
However, this season, he’s back and has teamed up with Anthony Davis to lead the Lakers to a 30-7 record, good for the best record in the Western Conference.
James and Anthony will have an opportunity to renew acquaintances on Jan. 31, when the Trail Blazers come to Staples Center.
