Overview
- Carmelo Anthony said on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast that LeBron James is “living long enough to be the villain” and insisted the league “doesn’t move without” him.
- Anthony’s remarks came as a response to Stephen A. Smith’s claim that James hurt the Slam Dunk Contest by never entering it during his prime.
- The former All-Star argued that scrutiny of James reflects his sustained dominance over two decades rather than responsibility for a single event.
- Recent on-court context includes James, 41, becoming the oldest player to record an NBA triple-double with 28 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists on Feb. 12, surpassing Karl Malone’s age mark.
- Coverage underscores that, despite the rise of younger stars, the Lakers and the league narrative continue to center on James’ presence and polarizing status.