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Published 09:22 IST, November 25th 2019

LeBron James urged Lakers to sign Carmelo Anthony, but front office turned away: Report

LeBron James apparently wanted Carmelo Anthony to join him at the Los Angeles Lakers before he made his switch to the Oregon-based side Portland Trail Blazers

Reported by: Sujay Chakraborty
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LeBron James was apparently keen to have Carmelo Anthony join him in Los Angeles before he opted for the Portland Trail Blazers. The 35-year-old was looking for a new home after leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder with James keen to team up with Anthony.

Also Read | Carmelo Anthony's Debut With Portland Is Celebrated By NBA Players On Twitter

LeBron James wanted Melo to join the Lakers

According to reports in the United States, LeBron James urged the Lakers to sign free agent Carmelo Anthony. The Lakers were themselves considering Anthony's signature, not just because of his friendship with James, but also because of what he could add to their ranks as an experienced squad member. The front office, however, chose to go in a different direction.

Also Read | NBA: LeBron James Approves Carmelo Anthony's Move, Posts 7 Instagram Stories For Melo

Lebron James and Carmelo Anthony

LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony are part of NBA's famous 'Banana Boat crew' which includes Chris Paul and the now-retired Dwyane Wade. And the report stated, James believed Anthony could help a young Lakers roster that has been dealt with various injuries this season including point guard Rajon Rondo and forward Brandon Ingram.

Also Read | LeBron James Is My NBA MVP This Season, Says Lakers Legend Magic Johnson

Carmelo Anthony to Trail Blazers a done deal!

Instead, the move did not come into fruition and Carmelo Anthony signed a one-year, non-guaranteed deal with the Western Conference franchise - Portland Trail Blazers. Anthony was out of the NBA for almost a year after the Houston Rockets released him after only 10 games with the team, but has already played thrice for the Oregon-based side. After a not so impressive debut, Anthony did fare much better in his second outing for the Trail Blazers recording 18 points. 4 assists and 7 rebounds in 29 minutes of play in a defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks. He also played a part in Trail Blazers' defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday scoring 11 points and one assist.

And LeBron James was the first the congratulate

LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony will face each other on December 6 in Portland.

Also Read | Watch Carmelo Anthony Perform Fancy Signature Celebration After Scoring Three-pointer

Updated 16:01 IST, November 25th 2019

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