Denver Nuggets' Carmelo Anthony's Image Takes the Biggest Hit

You know, just when I was starting to really like Denver Nuggets star forward, Carmelo Anthony - and he was beginning to repair hisless than glowing image, the guy goes and pulls one of the lamest acts that any man, not just an athlete, can pull.

That's right, I have to call it like I see it and I say Anthony, is an unadulterated punk, for lack of a better word (or should I say one that can't go into print). Not only did Anthony sucker-punch the New York Knicks, Mardy Collins and possibly escalate an already incendiary situation, but when Collins' teammmate, Knicks forward Jared Jeffries took several steps forward to defend his stunned and fallen teammate, Anthony began back-tracking faster he's ever done while attempting to play the almost non-existent defense he displays on a nightly basis.

I don't know about other people, but where I'm from, Anthony would have had to put his hands up or suffer the consequences of his cowardly actions - namely catching a beat-down as well as being recognized as the neighborhood punk.

Now, don't get me wrong, I am by no means advocating violence, but what I am saying is that Anthony certanly isn't in the same class as either LeBron James or Dwayne Wade when it comes to off-court behavior and on-court leadership.

As a matter of fact, I think even at this early stage of his acreer, Anthony is in danger of being labeled either as "just a scorer" or a hot head that can't control his emotions.

Either way, things are undeniably not looking real good for the former NCAA championship winning All-American from the University of Syracuse.

The one thing that makes me still have hope for Anthony as a real team leader and not just a selfish scorer, is what he said in a staement immediately following the debacle at Madison Square Garden.

Here is Anthony's statement in full:

"Last night's altercation with the Knicks escalated further than it should have. I take full responsibility for my actions in the matter. In the heat of the moment I let my emotions get the best of me. I apologize to the fans, the Denver Nuggets, the NBA, my mother, and my family for the embarrassment I have caused them. I ask you all for your forgiveness.