New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony is still recovering from his season ending knee surgery that took place seemingly right after the NBA All-Star break. Melo has been on the shelf ever since and he isn’t expected to resume any serious activity until training camp comes around.
He’s been seen putting up shots at MSG during pregame of Knicks games whenever he can but there is one obvious trend happening during the actual Knicks games.
Melo is no where to be seen on the Knicks bench.
In fact, he hasn’t been on the bench once since his surgery. Now there might be a reason for that.
Following from Marc Berman of the New York Post.
Coach Derek Fisher said he wasn’t sure of the reasons, but a Knicks official later said it was due to the fear of a hustling player crashing into the bench where Anthony might be sitting. Anthony’s surgery took place six weeks ago. It’s unclear if he will be on the bench by the time the season ends April 15.
“He’s enjoying being around the group,’’ Fisher said. “Guys are happy to see him moving around again. After being holed up in a place for a few weeks, the interaction has been good, talking about things he’s seeing and observations and continuing to encourage guys to take advantage of the opportunity.’’
You can’t blame Melo about this at all though. He obviously has a serious fear of this happening and you always see players spilling onto the bench in one way or another.
Damian Lillard just did it last night!
I’m sure most Knicks fans would agree, if you are hesitant about it, STAY AWAY FROM THE BENCH. The chance of that happening is real and who knows how mobile Carmelo actually is. What if someone does come flying and he can’t move fast enough?
I shudder to think of the repercussions. Rest up, Melo. You’ll need it for next season.
