Houston Rockets: 3 takeaways from the preseason

2. Carmelo Anthony is ready to silence his critics

Despite drawing a bevy of criticism over the last several seasons, Carmelo Anthony appears to be primed and poised to take on his latest challenge with the Rockets.

The man who once scoffed at the notion of coming off the bench has recently shown that he is willing to do whatever it takes to help his new cast mates win throughout his first few weeks in H-Town.

The 34-year-old — who started the first two exhibition games in the absence of Tucker — shot 50 percent from 3-point range, while also proving to be a solid complimentary piece and late game closer alongside Eric Gordon throughout the preseason.

Anthony scored 10 points on 4-for-4 shooting in the final frame of the Rockets 108-93 win against the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 7.

"“He’s going to be perfect” Rockets head coach Mike D’Antoni said to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle. “James and Chris don’t have to carry the load. He can make plays.” “His game…towards the end of games, mid-range, post-ups are good. We don’t want to do it most of the game because 3s are better throughout the game, but when it comes down to one point, two points, three points, whatever, it gives us another big option.”"

Although Anthony is still in the midst of fully grasping the Rockets offense, the veteran forward appears to be doing everything that he can to put together his finest season in recent memory, as finding a way to thrive alongside James Harden and Chris Paul — regardless of role — could be just what the 10-time All-Star needs to finally get over the hump.

And to officially silence his critics after all.