Carmelo Anthony’s Record Night, Lakers Offense Time and More Observations – The Athletic

LOS ANGELES – Here are five observations from Lakers‘121-118 won first Memphis Grizzlies on Sundays at the Staples Center.

Number 9 all time

At 3:22 of the third quarter, Carmelo Anthony lose two dribbles, increase in size Brandon Clarke, before rising for a fourth 3-pointer to give him a 16th, overtaking Hall of Fame center Moses Malone to finish ninth on the NBA’s all-time scorers list.

“Carmelo Anthony was fantastic tonight,” said Lakers head coach Frank Vogel. “He didn’t crawl up to that mark. He blew off its door. And I’m very happy for him. He’s a great cultural fit for our team and it’s clear that he’s really playing at a high level in the ring. He’s got a lot of stuff left in the tank and he’s really going to help us this year. “

The Lakers gave Anthony a ball in the locker room after the game. He said he wasn’t able to fully process the achievement until after the game, as he is more focused on trying to help the Lakers get their first win of the 2021-22 season.

“It’s an honor, it’s a blessing,” Anthony said. “But to get on that list, get past Moses and know what Moses did, what he did for the basketball game, it’s hard to put into words. I’m still here doing it. I think that’s what I’m really excited about. Here I am 19 years old still doing what I can. Still love the game. Still passionate about coming to work every day and getting better.