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Melo On Jeremy Lin's Departure: 'Anything That Happens In New York They Blame Me'

NEW YORK (WFAN) - In the midst of the Jeremy Lin saga this offseason -- will he or won't he return to the Knicks? -- many pointed their fingers at Carmelo Anthony.

Though it was ultimately Knicks owner James Dolan's decision not to match the Rockets' offer sheet for Lin, media members and fans alike speculated that Anthony wanted Lin out of town. Prior to the deadline set for when the Knicks had to either match or not match Houston's offer, Anthony went on to say that it was up to the Knicks to match that "ridiculous contract" on Lin's plate.

Clearly, that statement didn't sit well with many.

But when the five-time NBA All-Star addressed his ex-teammate's departure while taking questions with Team USA in London, Anthony said that he had nothing to do with Lin leaving for greener pastures.

"Believe it or not, I've been one of the true supporters of Jeremy Lin," the 28-year-old told the New York Daily News.

After electrifying Madison Square Garden this past season with his electric play at point guard, Lin signed a three-year, $25 million contract with the Rockets. He's set to make $14.8 million in the final year of the deal.

Melo wouldn't take the blame for Lin leaving, but he did acknowledge that he'll always take the brunt of criticism when things go wrong.

"It is what it is," Anthony told the New York Daily News. "Anything that happens in New York they blame me. I accept that. I don't really worry about it, to be honest with you."

Lin averaged 14.6 points, 6.2 assists and 3.1 rebounds in 35 games played for the Knicks in 2012.

Do you believe that Melo was fully supportive of Lin, or do you think that he played a major role in his departure? Sound off with your thoughts and comments below...

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