BOSTON — The evolution of Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony, from great to greatness, can be attributed to his NBA maturity. But even his coach, George Karl, said Anthony’s development with Team USA has been vital.
“No question – capital letters, underlined,” Karl said before Wednesday’s Nuggets-Celtics game. “His professional maturity, respect for the game, respect for his teammates, respect for basketball. There’s no question he’s more aware of how hard it is to be a special player, and the responsibility that comes with being a special player.”
Anthony entered Wednesday third in the NBA with 27.3 points per game, following a season when he finished second (28.9).
Karl smiled when telling the story of the 2006 Team USA tryouts, when Karl was accompanied by a friend who worked in the front office of an opposing team: “He said, ‘He might not make the team,”‘ Karl said. “But Carmelo went from that to being the captain of that team. And this summer he comes back and, I don’t know if he’s the best player on the team, but he was probably the best offensive player.”
Karl pointed out that Anthony has struggled in one area this season – rebounding. He’s averaging 3.8, compared to his career average of 5.7.
Angry A.I. In the first quarter, Celtics guard Rajon Rondo stripped the ball from guard Allen Iverson, and Iverson, so steadfast that it was a foul, began barking at official Sean Wright. After Rondo made the basket, Wright handed the ball to Iverson, who angrily caught the ball by slapping it hard with both hands.
Instant contenders. The Celtics added two potential Hall of Famers this offseason with Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. Karl was asked if he could remember a team making such a drastic change from cellar dwellers to title contenders.
“I don’t think so,” the coach said. “This is a big play, and I personally think it’s a good play. So much of our league is into young, rebuilding, retooling, and it’s so anti-coaching because most of the time rebuilding and retooling is done for the next coach.
“I hope it has success, because it’s a good statement that the old veteran guys know how to win more than these young, potential players.
“Last time I checked, it’s not about potential – it’s about winning.”
