Carmelo Anthony has always believed that he belongs on the list of the best players in the NBA.  After tonight’s game against Cleveland, LeBron James may be a believer, too. 

While being closely guarded by James, Anthony sunk a jumper with 2 seconds left in overtime to lift the Denver Nuggets to a 118-116 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.  LeBron James attempted a last-second heave that bounced off the rim, ending the Cavs win streak at 13. 

The contest saw both teams exhibit hot and cold streaks.  The Nuggets jumped out to a double-digit lead in the middle of the first half.  Then, it was Cleveland that came back and took command of the game at the close of the third quarter.  But down the stretch, the game tightened up.  With the game tied approaching the end of regulation, the Nuggets have a chance to win.  However, Chauncey Billups’ three-pointer was off the mark and the game entered overtime.

LeBron had a monster game - 43, 13 and 15.

The overtime period saw the Nuggets build a 5-point lead after Anthony penetrated and dished to Billups in the corner.  Billups gave a slight hesitation to freeze James’ close out, and then calmly buried the shot.  But the Cavs charged back and tied the game on a conventional three-point play by LeBron.

This all set the stage for Melo’s dramatic finish.  Billups brought the ball up the court, and Denver was setting up for a screen and roll with Anthony.  After dribbling off of the screen, Billups passed off to Carmelo.  LeBron, knowing that Melo had his stroke going, gave him no room to breathe.  But Anthony calmly jab-stepped and quickly released a jumper that hit nothing but the bottom of the net.

The game was a non-stop display of two of the best talents – and friends - in the NBA.  LeBron James finished the game with 43 points, 13 rebounds and 15 assists.  He was the first player since 1974 (Pistol Pete Maravich) to put up 40-10-15.  Carmelo Anthony was able to score at will as well, dropping 40 points of his own.

Perhaps the best part of the game was the head-to-head matchups between Anthony and James.  They did what so many superstars refuse to do…they guarded each other on both ends of the floor.  The competitiveness of the teams’ best players made this a memorable game.

And that last shot that Anthony made will be one that James won’t soon forget.

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