:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67315582/usa_today_14765436.0.jpg)
In the wake of the Portland Trail Blazers’ first round loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, unrestricted free agent Carmelo Anthony has indicated that he regards Portland as a good fit and “prays” he can come to an agreement with the team next season.
Carmelo Anthony on next season: “I pray that it can be Portland. I think I’ve found a home here. At this point in my career, I think that’s the best fit for me.”
— Sean Highkin (@highkin) August 30, 2020
In a televised post-game press conference, Anthony said he wasn’t considering retirement, adding how much he had appreciated being a part of Blazers organization, which let him be who he is.
“I consider myself already coming back, so it’s not even something I’ve thought about,” Anthony said.
“Whenever you find a situation that’s comfortable and allows you to be who you are, you want to stay in that situation, there’s no need to try different things.
“If we give ourselves a chance to keep this team together, get guys healthy, and get another run at it.”
While a number of factors will dictate what the Portland squad looks like next season, this is the most emphatic Anthony has been about his basketball future since joining the Blazers in November.
Terry Stotts also talked about his experience coaching the 36-year-old Anthony post game.
"I feel very honored to be able to have coached him. He's a Hall of Fame player and a Hall of Fame guy."
— Jamie Hudson (@JamieHudsonNBCS) August 30, 2020
^^^ Coach Stotts postgame on Carmelo Anthony
Anthony recorded averages of 15.4 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 58 regular-season appearances with the Blazers this season.