Carmelo Anthony is perhaps the lone remaining high-profile NBA player who is yet to get his wish. The delay is caused by the no-trade clause, something the all-star forward has limited to the Houston Rockets. Latest reports reveal that he has broadened the choices for the New York Knicks.
According to ESPN, the Knicks were informed by the camp of Anthony that the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Oklahoma City Thunder are the other teams where the all-star forward would be willing to trade his no-trade clause. With New York unable to find a suited deal between them and Houston, the broadened choices may finally consummate one.
The only question now is where.
Carmelo Anthony may eventually succeed LeBron James
Initially, Anthony was linked to a possible move to Cleveland. But all this was before Kyrie Irving had asked to be traded. “Uncle Drew” is now with the Boston Celtics.
The rumor back then was a trade involving Kevin Love, but the Knicks were not interested in the 29-year-old cager. Hence, the only recourse was to get Anthony by some other means, but it would require him to waive his no-trade clause.
Now that the no-trade stipulation has been reportedly lifted on the Cavs, it could reunite Anthony with his buddy LeBron James. Looking ahead, it may be a short reunion with James’ future with the franchise uncertain.
James has a player option, and the “King” may leave in 2018. The Los Angeles Lakers have been mentioned as a potential landing spot though all that could change depending on how the Cavs fare this season.
If James leaves, a Carmelo Anthony coming may be more of a contingency plan for the Cavs. Melo would be the new star of the franchise to make sure they remain competitive.
Stint with the OKC Thunder lacks sense
The Oklahoma City Thunder have surprisingly been added to the mix, a team that boasts of Russell Westbrook and Paul George. George is in a similar vote as Anthony, meaning the 27-year-old could end up succeeding him at the small forward position after the 2017-18 NBA season.
Ironically, George is also a name linked to the Lakers after this NBA season.
There is a possibility that James and George could end up in Los Angeles by 2018, moves that would depend on how LA and Cleveland will perform this season.
Don’t count out the Portland Trail Blazers
A third team is still in play with the Portland Trail Blazers. Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum are also trying to convince Melo to waive his no-trade clause though the Blazers may need to find other ways to get him.
The Knicks will have a media day this Monday with most expected to monitor the Anthony situation. If nothing goes down in the next days, Anthony could find himself donning the Knicks jersey – at least until a workable deal comes up.
