The New York Knicks have started the season with a 19-24 record in the NBA Eastern Conference. They are currently in 11th place and are only a few games back from the 8th and final playoff spot. Even though there is a chance this team can possibly make the playoffs, it is widely believed that the team will make some major changes to its roster before the NBA trade deadline next month. The player most likely to be moved is All-Star forward Carmelo Anthony.
Melo on the move?
Carmelo Anthony has stated publicly that he wants to stay in New York and he does have a no trade clause in his contract, but after meeting with team president Phil Jackson earlier in the week, he may be willing to waive that clause so that he can be traded to a contender.
Anthony has been linked to several teams recently, including the Los Angeles Clippers and the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers. The team most likely to acquire his services, however, is the Boston Celtics.
Boston is loaded with valuable talent and assets and can definitely make an offer to New York that is difficult to turn down. They have two first round draft picks in 2017 and 2018 from the Brooklyn Nets and those could end up being very high picks (which would make them attractive trade chips). The Celtics also have players like Amir Johnson and Jonas Jerebko on cheap, expiring contracts. Defensive ace Jae Crowder could also be on the table, and Phil Jackson is apparently already enamored with the idea of getting him.
Boston is sitting in a prime position in the Eastern Conference, and adding a scoring threat like Carmelo could possibly put the team over the top. Right now it's just a scramble for second place with the Lebron James-led Cavaliers clearly at the top. Boston would definitely have to make a move if they want to be truly competitive.
Major NBA trade looming?
The Knicks are more than likely going to try and move their disgruntled star before the February deadline. With Boston having the best assets to offer, a deal is imminent. Boston GM Danny Ainge has already stated that if a deal comes up that would allow them to get another star and be contenders, then he would go for it.
With the Celtics being right on the cusp of contention, there is no doubt a deal will be done.
The proposed trade between the Celtics and the Knicks would send Jae Crowder, Amir Johnson, Jonas Jerebko, and a first round pick in 2018 for Carmelo Anthony. It seems as if Boston is giving up a ton, but in actuality the team would be immediately upgraded with Melo. A starting five of Isaiah Thomas, Avery Bradlely, Melo, Kelly Olynk, and Al Horford is an extremely good core to have. The Knicks would gain valuable assets to start rebuilding the franchise, so it's really a win-win for both organizations. The clock is ticking, and it's only a matter of time before the two teams decide to pull the trigger on a deal that would definitely change the landscape of the NBA.
