The New York Knicks are off to a very productive and positive 12-4 start this season.
Many things can attributed to it, but most importantly is their team chemistry, and their star playing at a high level.
Carmelo Anthony is a positive force right now, averaging 29.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in the Knicks four games this week alone.
Tyson Chandlers has been around Melo since the beginning of the summer, and Pro Basketball Talk is reporting that Chandler feels the Olympics really helped his teammate take his game to another level.
“I think it’s the best thing that could have happened to him, to be able to play this summer and be able to stay in shape and play at a high level and play against, obviously, incredible competition, as well as get his [mind] right. Carmelo is a huge competitor and he wants to be one of the best players in this league, and he is one of the best players in this league. Being around those guys this summer I think got his competitive juices going.”
Anthony is in shape right now, playing defense, and most importantly playing unselfish ball.
Chandler again spoke highly about the defense Melo is playing.
“Absolutely. He’s definitely playing on both ends and you’re exactly right. Being the star player and a key player is not just playing on one end, it’s playing on both ends. That’s really how you make a championship run and that’s what he’s done already now. He’s been an incredible leader and he’s leading by example. He’s getting out there. He’s hustling, not only with what you guys are seeing at games, but it’s the same thing at practice. He’s paying attention to film. It’s all the little things that make a huge difference.”
I think Anthony really got the hint after LeBron finally won his first ring.
Melo was now on the clock, and all the pressure and ringless talk would shift to him.
Kudos to him for stepping up and understanding his time is now.