One of the latest, and surprising, sign-ups this season is the one between Carmelo Anthony and the Portland Trail Blazers.
The news is that the 35-year-old star signed a one-year non-guaranteed contract, meaning that his contract for the year in view could be altered at any time. Another condition attached is to watch his performance between now and January of next year to see how far he performs.
Carmelo, who left the Houston Rockets about a year ago, has not been signed to any team for a complete calendar year. But he was able to declare, before the start of the new season, that he would be able to play in a team and that is coming to past after the chance offered to him by Portland Trail Blazers President of Basketball Operations Neil Olshey, who, according to sources, told Carmelo, “you need us…and we need you.”
This was after Olshey had tried to get Carmelo to join the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunders. Obviously, what Carmelo had needed all these while was for someone to believe in him, and that is something Olshey had done well.
One of the many issues concerning Carmelo’s signing now is the fact that he doesn’t seem to have much to offer, due to his age. He holds the record for being among one of the top scorers in the history of the NBA, but these days, he doesn’t seem capable of making such records again. Still, it seems that Carmelo’s job is more than just playing, as, being the legend that he is, he could be capable of raising team spirit and encouraging everyone to put in their best in the game.
Besides, the Trail Blazers were faced with limited options, as other veteran players are either signed as free agents or have contracts in some other team.
Carmelo is expected to begin his play on Tuesday as the Trail Blazers face the New Orleans Pelicans. This is contrary to earlier speculations that he could play on Monday against his former team, the Rockets.
Portland Trail Blazers are fancied at 44.00 to win the NBA. while the Houston Rockets are backed at 8.50.
Written by: Leon Osamor
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