Carmelo Anthony criticizes the NBA: "This league does not move without LeBron James"

Carmelo Anthony didn't hold back when talking about LeBron James' role in today's NBA. In a recent episode of his podcast 7PM in Brooklyn, the former Lakers player defended his old friend from criticisms and was clear in describing his impact.

"He lives long enough to be the villain... he still controls this league," Anthony stated. "This league doesn't move without Bron. I don't care what they say. It doesn't move without Bron."

Melo's words are supported by recent events. On Thursday, February 12, 2026, with Luka Doncic out due to injury, James led the Lakers to a convincing 124-104 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at the Crypto.com Arena.

In that game, LeBron became the oldest player in NBA history to achieve a triple-double, recording 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists, surpassing Karl Malone's record set at 40 years old in 2003.

The “villain” who continues to be a protagonist

Anthony interpreted that James' longevity has made him a polarizing figure: some fans want the torch to definitively pass to the new generation, but LeBron remains the league's main focus.

Even with the emergence of young stars, TV ratings and media interest peak when James is on the court. For Melo, that's no coincidence.

The Lakers and a red-hot Western Conference

The Lakers rely on LeBron's dominant presence as they try to navigate through an extremely competitive Western Conference.

Anthony's message is clear: like it or not, as long as LeBron James stays healthy and competes at this level, he will continue to be the driving force behind the NBA.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Carmelo Anthony critica a la NBA: "Esta liga no se mueve sin LeBron James"