Carmelo Anthony
The LA Lakers have a roster spot open which may likely be for Carmelo Anthony. Former New York Knicks Carmelo Anthony attends the game between the New York Knicks and the Miami Heat at Madison Square Garden on January 27, 2019 in New York City. Getty Images/Elsa

Carmelo Anthony is finally back in the NBA with reports that he will be signed by the Portland Trail Blazers. The 35-year-old All-Star gets the chance to show the basketball world that he can still play ball with the Blazers hoping to get a boost in the process.

The Blazers are 4-8 right now and need a shot in the arm. Anthony, known for his offensive prowess, could boost their offensive sock. However, his tenure remains a big question mark.

Citing league sources, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN was the first to report of the Carmelo Anthony to Portland deal. The 10-time NBA All-Star will reportedly join the Blazers in their upcoming road trip. Interestingly, one team that they will play are the Houston Rockets - the same team Anthony played for.

Aware that some NBA stars have shown reluctance on the 2013 NBA scoring champion, Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports reported that the Blazers informed Damian Lillard of the move. The 2013 NBA Rookie of the Year was allegedly supportive of the deal.

However, Anthony's stay will still depend on his performance with the team. NBA.com reported that the 3rd overall pick of the 2003 NBA Draft will be paid $14,490 for each day he is on the Portland roster. His contract will only become fully guaranteed on Jan. 7, 2020 if he is still in the lineup.

The Blazers need added manpower following injuries to some players. The list includes Zach Collins (shoulder), Jusuf Nurkic (broken leg) and Pau Gasol (foot).

Many will be eager to see how Anthony fits into the system of head coach Terry Stotts. His conditioning will also be scrutinized, having been out of action for almost a year. Anthony played only 10 games for the Rockets where he averaged 13.4 points and 5.4 rebounds. He holds career averages of 24.0 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.0 assists.

At 35, this could be Anthony's last chance to show the NBA world that he can still play. Bungling this one could see him depart with lesser opportunities. The Blazers face the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday at the AT&T Center with tip-off set at 8:30 p.m. ET.

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