Melo is returning to Portland, and now we know why. Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Carmelo Anthony re-signs with Trail Blazers out of loyalty to franchise

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 11/21/20

The Portland Trail Blazers plan to keep it Melo.

Carmelo Anthony is finalizing a one-year deal to return to Portland for the 2020-21 season, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania. His decision to stay with the Trail Blazers comes out of loyalty to the franchise that gave him a shot last season following a yearlong absence from the NBA.

Anthony wanted to show loyalty to the Trail Blazers, who gave him his opportunity to return to the NBA last season. He understands what to expect in Portland, where he will play a key role on a potential contender. https://t.co/3AiNteh9GN
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 21, 2020

While he was away from basketball, Anthony admitted he seriously considered retiring from the NBA. The 36-year-old, instead, impressed in his return to the floor, averaging 15.4 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 43 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from deep.

Before joining Portland last season, Anthony played for the New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets.

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