The Carmelo Anthony trade rumors have been swirling for the past couple of weeks. While we may not know where he ends up, it’s almost certain that he gets traded before the regular season begins. Currently, the Houston Rockets and New York Knicks are working on trade scenarios, which would include a four-team deal, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. At this time, no trade is imminent, but the two sides are motivated to get a deal done. Earlier, it was reported that an unnamed NBA general manager said that Anthony wants to join LeBron James in Cleveland, according to Sam Amico of Fox Sports Ohio.
While that may be true, Anthony has major concerns with Cleveland.
Anthony is afraid his good friend may leave
According to New York Daily News, Anthony is afraid to join LeBron in Cleveland because it is widely believed that James will leave the team in 2018 to join the Los Angeles Lakers. The speculations about this theory have been strong. James wants to be in L.A. to be closer to his businesses. He has millions of dollars in the movie industry and would benefit from living closer to Hollywood. Additionally, his wife also wants to be in Los Angeles, and James is reportedly already planning to move his family there.
Therefore, it’s understandable for Anthony to be concerned. While Anthony knows that being in Cleveland would most likely guarantee him a trip to the NBA Finals, another loss to the Golden State Warriors would drive James to L.A., leaving the Cavaliers in shambles.
Despite all this, Cleveland hasn’t abandoned its pursuit of Anthony.
Houston Rockets becoming clear favorites to land Anthony
In addition, the Cavaliers have been unwilling to include Kevin Love in a trade for Anthony. Without Love in the deal, the Cavaliers have very limited trade assets, which has allowed the Rockets to take advantage by offering better pieces.
The Knicks and Rockets seem determined to get a deal done. They basically just need to find a third and fourth team willing to help execute the trade. Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that New York and Houston are confident that they already have another willing trade partner. Earlier, there were rumors that the Portland Trail Blazers were one team involved in the Anthony trade, so the unknown third team could be them.
The Knicks aren’t interested in veteran players and bad contracts in exchange for Anthony. They are mainly looking for young assets and draft picks that would help them rebuild around Kristaps Porzingis.
With the Knicks pushing hard for an Anthony trade to happen, a deal could be made in the coming weeks.
