Carmelo For MVP

When talking about the top players from the 2003 NBA Draft, Carmelo Anthony’s name seems to get lost among the likes of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh.  Why?  He is just as talented and has not missed the playoffs since he’s been in the league (a distinction that James, Wade, and Bosh do not have).  I’m a Pistons fan and I cannot believe that Dumars passed on him.  Carmelo has received the short end of the stick because of his image.  Whether it’s being arrested for drunk driving, brawling with New York Knicks, or supporting witness intimidation, Carmelo is no stranger to negative press.  But, at this time let’s focus on basketball.

Melo scores in a variety of ways

After only three games, Carmelo is my stand out for MVP.  As Jay-Z says, “Men lie, Women lie, Numbers don’t”.  Melo is a beast; he is currently leading the league in scoring with 37.7 points per game.  He is shooting 53.6% from the field and 42.9% from three.  Both are career highs.  He is dominating games and so far he cannot be contained.  He is getting his shots in a variety of ways.  Melo’s mid-range jumper is on, he’s taking the rock to the hole, he’s shooting threes, and he’s getting to the line.  Melo also has got his all around game going for him.  He averaging 7 rebounds a game which is his highest rebound output since the 07-08 season when he grabbed 7.4 boards a game.  His assist average of 4.3 per game is his career best.  He also put together back to back 40 point games against Portland and Memphis respectively and has led his team to a perfect record.   I know it’s early yet, but I don’t see him slowing down.

Carmelo Dunking

I attribute his fast start to his off season training regimen.  Carmelo worked with his trainer Idan Ravin.  Melo is in the best shape of his career.  He looks leaner and noticeably faster out on the court.  His shooting accuracy is superb (look for that jab step jumper) and he is grabbing boards (which is very important to his team).  Most folks had LeBron or Kobe for MVP and I cannot blame them.  At the beginning of the year I had Kobe.  All I’m saying is that Carmelo Anthony needs to be in the conversation.  Don’t count him out.

Carmelo Dunks on Paul Millsap.  Wow!

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