The packed Garden crowd was nearly silent through the first four Trail Blazers starters, then delivered a big ovation, without any boos, when Carmelo Anthony’s name was called as he returned to his former home Wednesday for the first time since he was out of basketball and nearly retired.
Anthony, who signed with Portland in November, was cheered when he touched the ball for the first time and it got even louder when he hit his first shot. He also heard applause when he took the court for pregame warmups, with his signature hoodie on.
The reaction was much different from the one another former Knicks star received in November. Kristaps Porzingis, who was traded to Dallas last season, was showered with boos in introductions and whenever he touched the ball when the Mavericks lost to the Knicks at the Garden on Nov. 14.
Anthony also received a warm welcome from the Garden crown when he first returned with the Thunder in 2017.
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