Fansided

NBA Free Agents: Carmelo Anthony’s best destinations

By Michael Dunlap

Apr 6, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) walks back to the bench during the second half against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Miami won 102-91. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 6, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) walks back to the bench during the second half against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Miami won 102-91. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Miami Heat

You’ve got the best player in basketball in LeBron James, a top-5 shooting guard in Dwyane Wade and a versatile center in Chris Bosh. Adding Carmelo Anthony to the mix would be the equivalent of “cheat mode.” This team got worked in the 2014 NBA Finals, but let’s not forget how good they are and the fact that they’ve made it to four consecutive NBA Finals. Why is that relevant? They’ve essentially played an extra season of games. That kind of wear is a real issue and the fact that Anthony would provide them another workhorse to take some of the offensive pressure off is huge.

Offensive power isn’t what doomed the 2013-14 Heat, though. They got killed on the glass and didn’t get nearly enough from their point guard. Unfortunately, James can’t be in three places at once, but adding Anthony means that LeBron could truly channel his inner Magic Johnson for the first time in his career. James wouldn’t have to worry about carrying Wade while he’s hurt or Bosh while he’s ineffective. He’d have a legit scorer next to him (and a guy who isn’t afraid to play that role on a big stage), so James would be able to facilitate, rebound and defend.

Also of note — Anthony set a career high in rebounds per game this season, remember? It’s quite subjective, but with James and Anthony together, you’ve got two of the best rebounding wings in the game. Both Anthony (No. 23 in NBA, 477 total) and James (No. 30, 452) are excellent defensive rebounders. If the Heat added Anthony and a massive center to defend the rim, it’s game over for the NBA for the next three seasons.

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