Melo Left Behind

The 2003 NBA Draft stand outs are among the most impressive in history for one draft. LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade all taken in the top 5.

It is on the same level as the 1984 Draft; With Akeem Olajuwon, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley and John Stocton, all Hall of Famers, being drafted.

As the careers of the 2003 class have progressed, all four players have been selected to All-Star Games and All-NBA Teams, all are future Hall of Famers. But Carmelo Anthony has been left behind in the championship count due to his contract disputes.

LeBron, Wade and Bosh won two while teamed up in Miami, LeBron and Wade have won another separate.

Carmelo took a 5-year max deal in 2006 with the Denver Nuggets, while the others only took 3-year extensions with player options after the 2009–2010 — giving them the opportunity to meet up in Miami.

Melo then forced a trade from Denver to the New York Knicks in a blockbuster three-team, 12 player trade that hindered their future by trading a 1st round and two 2nd round picks.

Melo’s career choices are indicative of his of his playing style as well. Out of Melo, LeBron and Wade, Melo as the lowest career assist average, 3.2. He is a ball-dominant, score-first Small Forward who has had many games without a single assist.

Melo has had a great numbers career but has been left behind, by his own doing, in the most important category. Championships.