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Damian Lillard wills Portland Trail Blazers To Win In stunning fashion

By Zach Ciavolella

Jan 30, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) makes the game winning three point basket at the buzzer against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 30, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) makes the game winning three point basket at the buzzer against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

What’s going on with Carmelo Anthony?

When the Blazers resigned Anthony in the offseason to the veteran minimum, it was viewed as a critical move for the team, and it still can be.

Melo’s comeback season was a big part of a seesaw season that ended with the team making a wild run into the playoffs. The Anthony of last season could be an enormous help to this team, but where exactly is he?

It’s likely the drop in efficiency is due to the increased responsibility Anthony is seeing. While his three-point percentage (36.1%) is down from last season, it’s actually above his career average (34.9%). The issue isn’t his outside shot; it’s anything inside the arc.

Anthony is shooting a meager 38.5% on two-point field goal attempts this season. Just how bad is that? Bad enough for him to rank 251st in the league among 273 qualified players.

What’s really curious is that the volume of his two-pointers has dropped. It’s not as if he’s forcing too many mid-range jump shots.

Melo’s issues can likely be attributed to the unique season this pandemic has presented us with. Without a proper offseason and “normal” team practices, preparation has been a struggle for many players, not just Anthony.

It’s a major issue for Portland because Anthony’s role has only increased so far this season out of necessity. Even though he’s coming off the bench more often than not, he’s looked to as one of the offensive leaders.

Anthony can find his old form; in fact, it might just be a matter of time. Hopefully, if he does turn things around, it happens sooner rather than later because the team certainly needs him.