Carmelo Anthony and DeMar DeRozan have expressed their admiration for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, especially after his impressive season culminating in an NBA championship. Their support for the mid-range game, often viewed as obsolete, finds validation in Gilgeous-Alexander's success, as he has thrived using mid-range jumpers to secure a scoring title this year.

Gilgeous-Alexander's ability to score 32.7 points on 51.9% shooting underscores Anthony's view that the mid-range jumper remains a crucial weapon. With defenses increasingly focused on limiting threes and driving lanes, Gilgeous-Alexander's knack for taking quality shots from the mid-range makes him a unique offensive threat.

The evolution of the NBA from the early 2000s to today highlights significant cultural and physical changes within the league. Carmelo Anthony, reflecting on his rookie years, pointed out how players back then were often family men carrying heavy responsibilities off the court. The pressure to perform was immense, and mental health resources were scarce, leading to a culture of toughness and resilience among players.

Today, many franchises prioritize young talent, resulting in fewer seasoned veterans to provide mentorship. This shift has implications for rookies, who often enter a more nurturing environment but may struggle with expectations when they eventually face adversity. As the league adapts, conversations around mental health have become more prevalent, marking a notable cultural shift in how players approach their well-being.

Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James, who entered the NBA in 2003, have had a storied rivalry and friendship that began with their rookie seasons. Both players delivered remarkable performances, averaging around 21 points per game, but it was James who clinched the Rookie of the Year award, despite Anthony's Nuggets making the playoffs. Tracy McGrady, during a recent discussion with Anthony, asserted that the accolade rightfully belonged to Melo, highlighting the significance of leading a team to the postseason as a rookie.

McGrady's comments reflect the ongoing debate among fans regarding the impact of individual versus team success in award selections. His own career ended the same year James and Anthony began, and he remains a prominent voice in the basketball community. This discussion reignites interest in the legacies of James and Anthony, especially with their shared history culminating in a season together with the Lakers.

The summer basketball circuit not only showcases emerging talent but also features established NBA stars who mentor the next generation. Notable names include Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony, who lend their influence to young players striving to emulate their success. The heir apparent, Chris Paul II, mirrors his father’s prowess on the court, exhibiting impressive control and scoring ability. Meanwhile, Nash Avery stands out on the Team Melo roster, capturing the relentless drive similar to that of Carmelo Anthony, as well as a promising statistical output.

On Team Durant, Baba Oladotun, known as 'Mini-KD,' continues to attract attention with his scoring ability reminiscent of Kevin Durant. Anthony Edwards' mentee, Tre Keith, is another rising star, demonstrating the skills that echo Edwards' earlier days. For Team Why Not, Russell Westbrook's style is reflected in Christian Collins, whose versatile scoring aligns with Westbrook’s dynamic play. Lastly, JaShawn Andrews is making waves as the Brad Beal prototype, showcasing similar scoring capabilities.