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.