Carmelo Anthony Reveals How He Always Felt Connected With the Lakers Because of His “Brother” Kobe Bryant

Carmelo Anthony could finally have a chance at competing for a championship. He was signed by the Los Angeles Lakers on a one-year deal. Melo will now pair up with his best friend LeBron James. The Lakers also have Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook. But he also played with Kobe Bryant.

This is not the first time Melo garnered interest from the Lakers. Back in 2014, Carmelo and the Lakers met up for a potential threat, but that fell through. Now, Melo reflects on the 2014 situation and speaks about his association with the Lakers.

ALSO READ- Jalen Green’s Lethal Step-Back Shot in Summer League Reminds Former NBA Champion of Allen Iverson

Carmelo Anthony connected with Lakers through Kobe Bryant

Recently, Anthony spoke about his flirtations with the Lakers in 2014. He claims he has always been connected with the organisation in some or the other way. He also said that he was connected through his ‘brother’, Kobe Bryant.

Anthony and Kobe would have been one duo to watch. Maybe it could have brought in a championship for the both of them. However, the trade fell off. Instead, Carmelo resigned with the New York Knicks on a max contract. But, now he finally sees himself on the Lakers.

He can now compete for title with the Lakers. Playing with the likes of LeBron James, Westbrook and AD, he can finally add a championship to his resume. However, what were the happenings of the 2014 trade and why did it fall off?

The 2014 Lakers meeting

In 2014, Carmelo Anthony opted out of his player contract with the Knicks. Many teams came into contact with him. But the Lakers seemed to get very close to him. They held a meeting with Carmelo Anthony. Jeanie Buss, Jim Buss, Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak, Time Warner and Anschutz Entertainment Group executives, and James Worthy were all present at the meeting.

However, Kobe Bryant could not attend the meeting. But it is a rumour that he met up with Melo privately. They offered him $97 million for 4 years. The Knicks offered him a max contract of their own. But, it would not be a favourable situation for the Lakers.

The 2014 Lakers did not have an impressive roster. Their biggest name was none other than Kobe Bryant. Rest, they didn’t even have a stable starting 5 organised. Hence, Anthony resigned with the New York Knicks, killing the hopes of a Bryant-Melo duo.

Do you think Kobe Bryant would have another title if Melo joined in 2014? Let us know in the comments below.

WATCH THIS STORY-  Players Who Schooled Michael Jordan: Allen Iverson, Dennis Rodman & More