Carmelo Anthony responds to the criticism about not adapting to the Lakers system
Carmelo Anthony believes he is misunderstood and that there is a misconception about him among the media and fans on how he was supposed to fit in with the Los Angeles Lakers. He addressed that topic after the last nights' game against the Houston Rockets.
Carmelo comments on the criticism
Last night, Carmelo Anthony had another big game in the Lakers' 95-85 win against the Houston Rockets. He finished the game with 23 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, and somewhat surprisingly 4 blocks which is a testament to dominating both ends of the floor equally well. That was probably Carmelo's best all-around game this entire season in a purple and gold jersey. After receiving criticism that he is washed out and not a good fit for the Lakers because of his inability to adapt, he responded to those comments in a press conference after the game.
"I think people don't really understand me," Anthony said. "I think there's a misconception out there about me and not being able to adapt to situations. But I'm easily adaptable, man, to any situation."
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Carmelo is so far having a surprisingly productive season averaging 16.7 points per game in 7 appearances so far for the Lakers. That is his highest scoring output ever since the 2016/17 season when he was still a member of the New York Knicks. For him, the game comes simple, and he feels his experience is what gives him that extra edge on the court.
"It's basketball. If you're open, shoot it. If not, make a play for yourself, make a play for others."
Making plays on both ends of the floor
Lakers coach Frank Vogel was also surprised to see Carmelo picking it up on defense like that. He was brought to the Lakers to provide instant scoring, so for him to step up on defense like that is a big plus for the squad, and hopefully, his effort will remain the same throughout the season.
"I didn't expect him to have a defensive performance like he did tonight," Lakers coach Frank Vogel said. "It was great. He's always good with his hands. But he's in the right position. When you watch him on tape coming into this year, Iike, the effort's there. He plays hard on that side of the ball."
Carmelo is slowly but surely finding his place with the Lakers, and there is no question they still need more time to gel properly as a unit. He is shooting over 50 percent from three this season and is currently among the top 10 players in the NBA in that aspect. If he is going to play defense on the same level as yesterday, the Lakers can count on him to make big plays on both ends of the floor, which automatically increases their chances of winning every single game.
