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Carmelo Anthony Believes LeBron James Earned Right to Call His Own Shots
The longtime rival says LeBron has done enough in the NBA to make his own decision on his future.
Published on Feb. 18, 2026
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Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is in the final year of his contract, leading to speculation about his future. Longtime friend and rival Carmelo Anthony believes James has earned the right to make his own decision on where he plays next season without facing too much scrutiny from fans.
Why it matters
LeBron James is one of the most iconic players of this generation, and his future plans will be a major storyline in the NBA. Anthony's comments suggest James has built up enough equity and goodwill in the league that he should be able to control his own destiny without facing intense backlash from fans.
The details
Anthony said James has "lived long enough to be a villain" and that the league "doesn't move without Bron." He believes James has done more than enough in his 23-year career to make his own choice on where he plays next, even if that means leaving the Lakers.
- LeBron James is in the final year of his contract with the Lakers.
The players
LeBron James
A 23-year NBA veteran and one of the most iconic players of this generation, currently playing for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Carmelo Anthony
A longtime friend and rival of LeBron James, who is currently a free agent after playing for the Lakers last season.
What they’re saying
“He's living long enough to be a villain. If you're going to be mad at him for leaving LA, what are you mad about? You're pushing him out in a sense.”
— Carmelo Anthony, NBA Player (7PM in Brooklyn)
“This league doesn't move without Bron. I don't care what nobody say.”
— Carmelo Anthony, NBA Player (7PM in Brooklyn)
The takeaway
LeBron James has cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats, and Carmelo Anthony believes he has earned the right to make his own decision on his future without facing intense scrutiny from fans. This speaks to the immense respect and influence James has built up over his 23-year career.
