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UPDATE: Jan. 31, 1:53 p.m. — Melo is not playing Friday night as he continues to grieve the loss of Kobe Bryant.
NBA Insider @ShamsCharania reports Carmelo Anthony will not play Friday night against the Lakers in Los Angeles "because of his continued grieving and emotions over the loss of Kobe Bryant on Sunday." pic.twitter.com/jrPdl8RQN5
— Stadium (@Stadium) January 31, 2020
Portland Trail Blazers F Carmelo Anthony did not travel with the team to Los Angeles for their game against the Lakers on Friday. It’s unclear the reason so for now we’ll call it personal for Melo.
Carmelo Anthony did not travel with the team to Los Angeles and is out for Friday’s game vs. Lakers
— Casey Holdahl (@CHold) January 30, 2020
Fantasy basketball analysis: Trail Blazers F Carmelo Anthony
We can take away a few things when it comes to Melo being out. Damian Lillard gets more touches. C.J. McCollum gets more touches. So both guards in better spots — though the Lakers are tough on defense. The likely starter will be either Nasir Little or even Caleb Swanigan. Unless Terry Stotts plays Trevor Ariza at the 4 and starts three guards with Gary Trent Jr. or Anfernee Simons. Follow the news to find out. For now, let’s say Dame and CJ are strong GPP plays Friday.