Lakers 'most likely landing spot' for Carmelo Anthony?

Portland Trail Blazers forward Carmelo Anthony (00) looks on against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Phoenix Suns Arena. Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Lakers reportedly 'most likely landing spot' for Carmelo Anthony if he leaves Trail Blazers

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 7/13/21

Carmelo Anthony could be looking for a new home this summer, and he could potentially land with a 2022 NBA title favorite.

According to Evan Massey of NBA Analysis Network, if Anthony leaves the Portland Trail Blazers, the Los Angeles Lakers seem like the "most likely landing spot" for the veteran.

Another source just told @HoopAnalysisNet:

"The Lakers seem like the most likely landing spot for Carmelo Anthony if he leaves Portland in free agency. Both sides have a high level of interest in each other."#Lakers #NBA
— Evan Massey (@massey_evan) July 12, 2021

A move to Los Angeles makes sense for a number of reasons. Portland fell in the first round of the playoffs again last season. Damian Lillard is frustrated that the team can't compete for a championship, and he could be traded this offseason. With a slew of changes coming for the Trail Blazers, it's unclear if Anthony wants to stick around.

Anthony and the Lakers would also prove to be a good match. In a reserve role for the Blazers, the 37-year-old averaged 13.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 42.1% from the field and 40.9% from deep in 2020-21. L.A. could use his scoring punch and shooting ability off the bench after a disappointing first-round playoff loss this season.

It is also well known that Anthony is good friends with LeBron James. If they team up, great things could happen.

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