Carmelo Anthony revealed he turned down an opportunity to return to the New York Knicks, opting instead to retire following a season with the Los Angeles Lakers. In his podcast, Anthony disclosed that he was offered a position as the team's 15th man, which would likely result in limited playing time. He expressed concern about the uncertainty surrounding his role and stated, 'I’d rather not go through that,' emphasizing that accepting such a decline in status was not something he could accept. Despite his fond memories with the Knicks, where he had made a significant impact during his seven-year tenure, he ultimately chose to bow out gracefully. The Knicks, who could have benefited from his experience and scoring ability, faced challenges in the playoffs that season, highlighting the missed opportunity of his return. Anthony's decision underscores the complexities athletes face as they transition towards retirement, balancing legacy with current roles in their careers.