Thunderous Intentions
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Carmelo Anthony 2017-18 player preview: Melo Unleashed

By Lawrence George

TULSA, OK- OCTOBER 3: Carmelo Anthony
TULSA, OK- OCTOBER 3: Carmelo Anthony /
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DENVER, CO – OCTOBER 10: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the OKC Thunder boxes out against Juan Hernangomez #41 of the Denver Nuggets on October 10, 2017 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)
DENVER, CO – OCTOBER 10: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the OKC Thunder boxes out against Juan Hernangomez #41 of the Denver Nuggets on October 10, 2017 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Defensive intensity

Melo has regularly been roasted for his lack of intensity on the defensive end. Believe it or not, he’s been a decent rebounder over the course of his career, averaging 6.6 rebounds per game. With Melo at the 4, I expect to hear plenty of this. (Warning: NSFW)

On a more serious note, I expect to see more of this now that Melo is surrounded by elite defensive players.

Blocking shots and rebounding are effort plays. No longer expected to carry the bulk of the offense, I expect Melo to pay greater attention to defense. His effort on that side of the ball will be crucial to Oklahoma City’s chances of competing for a championship. He shows great help instincts when engaged, but is prone to laziness when guarding his man off-ball. Surrounded by defensive maestros in OKC, Melo’s effort needs to – and should – be there every night.

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