NBA: Carmelo Anthony Can Be Resurgent By Channeling Dwight Howard's Reunion With Lakers

Carmelo Anthony could make his NBA return more meaningful if he follows the blueprint of Dwight Howard’s reunion with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Anthony’s chase for an NBA comeback has been one of the most highly anticipated stories since the offseason. After repeatedly stating that he’s more than willing to play for the NBA again, the 10-time All Star finally got the chance to prove himself and he’s worth with the Portland Trail Blazers.

Ahead of his debut with the Blazers, the NBA world is already buzzing about how he will fit-in with a team that possesses an MVP-like superstar. One good way to make Anthony’s return suggests that he follows Howard’s resurgence with the Lakers this season.

According to NBC Sports, Anthony and Howard share almost the same scenario. And although the particulars are quite different, the theme and drama behind Anthony and Howard’s “last chance” are pretty much the same.

Looking back, Howard was also at the brink of blowing up his NBA career. Teams were not really interested in keeping him until he finally changed his perspective and ended up getting another shot in LA.

In the early going, Howard has already lived up to his role and given the Lakers the inside presence they need. The once phenomenal big man’s numbers may not be eye-popping scoring 7.7 points and grabbing 7.6 rebounds per night but he’s been the team’s best center thus far.

Anthony also has the chance to fill a role and help the Blazers’ ailing frontcourt. He’s got it on a team that could really use what he brings. However, “Melo” has to process that this is not his team. Anthony will need to accept a role, get buckets, play more catch-and-shoot than isolation, and defend well enough to stay on the court.

Portland’s 4-8 start made it the perfect team to take a chance on Anthony. The non-guaranteed deal is considered by experts as a smart signing by Portland. Anthony fills a need for the Blazers, who are short-handed at forward. Zach Collins recently had shoulder surgery that is expected to keep him out for at least four months. Rodney Hood has been bothered by back spasms, but returned for the team’s loss to Toronto.

Meanwhile, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Friday that Anthony isn't expected to make his Portland Trail Blazers debut until Tuesday's game at New Orleans at the earliest. This means Anthony won't be available to face his former team, the Houston Rockets, on Monday.