Lakers Reportedly Made a ‘Strong Impression’ on Carmelo Anthony

The Carmelo Anthony free agency saga continues to twist and turn. Now we have a report that says the Lakers—whose best player is a 35-year-old Kobe Bryant, and who have barely anyone signed to their actual roster—have emerged as a frontrunner, right alongside the New York Knicks. Via ESPN:

In a surprising twist, the Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as the team that most worries the New York Knicks in their attempt to re-sign superstar free-agent forward Carmelo Anthony, sources with knowledge of the situation told ESPN.

 

While the Knicks remain confident in their chances to convince Anthony to return to the Big Apple, the Lakers’ pitch — of teaming Anthony with Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and prized rookie Julius Randle on a team with no long-term salary obligations — made what one source described as a “strong impression” on Anthony, who is living and training in Los Angeles this summer, and has made his decision over the holiday weekend “tough,” according to another source close to the situation.

 

Los Angeles met with LeBron James’ agent, Rich Paul, on Friday, and the four-time MVP is giving similar consideration to what the Lakers have to offer, according to sources.