Carmelo Anthony returned to the Knicks starting lineup on Sunday after a groin injury kept him sidelined during Jeremy Lin's meteoric rise to legendary fame. In his first game back Melo struggled to keep up, scoring only 11 points to Lin's 21, an missing shots around the rim that he usually makes. He even dribbled the ball off of his own foot for a turnover (one of six he managed during the game). The Knicks lost to the New Jersey Nets 100-92.

Fans had worried that Anthony's return to the Knicks might spell disaster for the team's recent winning streak, and many took last night's performance as a confirmation of their fears. Sports commentator Skip Bayless took to Twitter to argue that Anthony just needed time to adjust to the new team dynamic.

Melo played more than thought (37 mins) but looked rusty, tentative off groin injury. 10 pts, 6 turnovers. Chemistry w/ Lin will take time, he tweeted.

A Match Made in Heaven
Anthony and Lin confer during Sunday's game. Reuters
DunkLin Donuts
Anthony attempts to dunk against the Nets in Sunday's game at Madison Square Garden. Reuters
Collision Course
Anthony powers through the Grizzlies' defense in a 2012 game prior to his injury. Reuters
NBA All-Star Game 2012
Carmelo Anthony (l.) will play against Kobe Bryant at the All-Star Game 2012 today. Reuters
Drive By
'Melo' drives by Toronto's defense in a 2012 game. Reuters
To the hoop
Anthony goes up for a basket between two Toronto Raptor Players, Amir Jonhson and Andrea Bargani. Reuters
Carmelo Antony vs. the Bulls
Melo driving past the Bulls defense for a basket in 2012. Reuters
Double teamed
Anthony looks to pass while being guarded by two Bulls players, Gibson and Brewer. Reuters
You must be this tall to ride.
Anthony is hit in the head as he attempts to power through Orlando's defense in 2012. Reuters
Happy Anthony
Carmelo smiles while watching the Bulls miss a free throw. Reuters
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