The Stephen A. Smith Show: Carmelo Anthony's Untapped Championship Potential

Introduction

In the April 4, 2025 episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show hosted by Stephen A. Smith and Max Kellerman, the dynamic duo delves deep into the career of Carmelo Anthony, exploring the "what-ifs" that surround his journey in the NBA. The episode, titled "Stephen A's Take: Carmelo Anthony could have won NBA championships with the Pistons or Heat," offers a comprehensive analysis of Anthony's potential championship successes had different decisions been made throughout his career.

Carmelo Anthony: An Elite Scorer and Hall of Famer

Stephen A. Smith kicks off the discussion by highlighting Carmelo Anthony's illustrious career:

"This brother right here is one of the elite scorers the game has ever seen." (01:22)

Anthony, a 10-time NBA All-Star and a six-time All-NBA selection, was drafted third overall in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets, narrowly missing out on being selected directly after LeBron James and just ahead of Dwyane Wade. Smith emphasizes Anthony's scoring prowess, citing his average of 21 points per game as a rookie and approximately 24.7 points per game during his tenure with the New York Knicks.

Smith continues:

"He is one of the greatest offensive players we have ever seen in our lifetime." (08:59)

Anthony's ability to score from various positions on the court, including his drop step, jab step, and jump shooting, established him as a formidable offensive force.

Missed Opportunity with the Detroit Pistons

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the 2003 NBA Draft and a pivotal decision made by the Detroit Pistons' president of basketball operations, Joe Dumars. Smith critiques Dumars' choice to select Darko Milichich with the Pistons' second overall pick instead of Carmelo Anthony:

"If Carmelo Anthony had been in the Detroit Pistons uniform, he'd have had a title because they wouldn't have lost it with him." (03:16)

He argues that Anthony's addition to the Pistons' already talented roster, which included Tayshaun Prince, Rip Hamilton, Chauncey Billups, Ben Wallace, and Rasheed Wallace, could have secured an NBA championship for Detroit. Smith believes that Anthony's scoring ability would have complemented the Pistons' defense, potentially leading to back-to-back championships and an extended period of dominance.

Smith acknowledges Joe Dumars' overall excellence as an executive but considers passing on Anthony as a glaring mistake that altered the trajectory of both franchises:

"But the biggest, most glaring mistake of his Executive career... was passing up on Carmelo Anthony." (04:12)

The Miami Heat Scenario: A Championship Trio

Transitioning from the Pistons, Smith and Kellerman examine what might have transpired if Anthony had opted to join the Miami Heat alongside LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. The discussion delves into contract negotiations and strategic decisions that led Anthony to remain with the Nuggets instead:

"Melo didn't do that. He had a contract with Denver that it was for five years with no out because... he wasn't putting himself in a position where he wasn't gonna be able to get that money." (05:28)

Smith contends that Anthony's refusal to exercise an opt-out clause, unlike his contemporaries, prevented him from joining a burgeoning superstar trio. He speculates that Anthony's aggressive playstyle and scoring would have significantly bolstered the Heat's chances, potentially leading to at least three NBA championships during the LeBron-Wade era.

"That Carmelo Anthony, I believe would have saved the Miami Heat in that final." (08:20)

They discuss how Anthony's leadership and offensive dominance might have altered key Finals matchups, such as the Heat's series against the Dallas Mavericks, where Smith believes Anthony's presence could have been the difference-maker.

Carmelo Anthony's Legacy and What Might Have Been

Despite the hypothetical scenarios, Smith and Kellerman acknowledge Anthony's impressive achievements outside of NBA championships. His three Olympic gold medals, national championship at Syracuse University, and consistent All-Star performances cement his legacy as one of the game's greats.

"He's a Hall of Famer without question now because he's won three Olympic gold medals. He's a 10-time All-Star." (08:59)

However, they express a shared sentiment of regret that Anthony never captured an NBA championship, considering it the only notable absence in his otherwise stellar basketball résumé.

"I just wish that Carmelo Anthony had captured an NBA championship." (09:34)

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of Carmelo Anthony's talents and character. While celebrating his individual accolades and off-court persona, Stephen A. Smith and Max Kellerman poignantly reflect on the championships that might have been, had circumstances aligned differently.

"I'm really, really, really happy for him. I just wish that I could have seen him in an NBA Finals because it would have been something to behold." (10:06)

Key Takeaways

• Carmelo Anthony's Scoring Prowess: Recognized as one of the greatest offensive players in NBA history, with consistent high scoring averages throughout his career.

• Detroit Pistons' Missed Opportunity: The Pistons' decision to draft Darko Milichich over Anthony in 2003 is viewed as a pivotal moment that could have altered the franchise's success trajectory.

• Miami Heat's Potential: Anthony's hypothetical inclusion in the Miami Heat could have led to multiple NBA championships, leveraging his aggressive playstyle and scoring ability.

• Legacy Beyond Championships: Despite not winning an NBA title, Anthony's legacy is solidified through his Olympic successes, All-Star appearances, and overall impact on the game.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "This brother right here is one of the elite scorers the game has ever seen." (01:22)

• "If Carmelo Anthony had been in the Detroit Pistons uniform, he'd have had a title because they wouldn't have lost it with him." (03:16)

• "He is one of the greatest offensive players we have ever seen in our lifetime." (08:59)

• "That Carmelo Anthony, I believe would have saved the Miami Heat in that final." (08:20)

• "I just wish that Carmelo Anthony had captured an NBA championship." (09:34)

Closing Thoughts

Stephen A. Smith and Max Kellerman provide an insightful examination of Carmelo Anthony's career, blending factual analysis with passionate speculation. The episode serves not only as a tribute to Anthony's abilities and achievements but also as a reflective piece on how pivotal decisions can shape the legacy of even the most talented athletes.