With Phil Jackson gone from the New York Knicks’ front office, Carmelo Anthony’s future is hanging in the balance. While there are differing opinions on what to do with the disgruntled star forward, and exit of some kind is the likely ending. The Knicks tried trading Anthony this past season and Jackson, prior to his departure, felt Carmelo would be better off with a different team. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported that the Rockets, who just traded for Chris Paul, feel they are getting either Paul George or Anthony.
Source on Rockets: "They think they are getting Carmelo or Paul George."
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) June 28, 2017
For what it is worth, Stephen A. Smith also has a similar sentiment on the issue, though says that Anthony would prefer to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, there are several hurdles that need to be crossed for anything like this to happen. Anthony’s salary, which is $26.2 million for the upcoming season, makes any movement difficult. A buyout is a more likely route, though the Knicks front office would rather facilitate a trade and recoup assets. With a buyout, the Knicks would get nothing in return except one less player on their roster. Carmelo Anthony is not the only high-profile NBA star to be in a buyout situation. Dwyane Wade, who recently agreed to pick up his lucrative option with the Chicago Bulls, may also consider a buyout.
The Cavaliers have been linked to Anthony for quite some time. Him and LeBron James are close friends and are reportedly receptive to the idea of playing alongside one another. A source tells Joe Vardon of cleveland.com that Anthony would consider Cleveland if he is bought out. The issue in the process is salary cap space. The max the Cavs can offer is $5.1 million, a number they must divide amongst their free agents. However, money may not be at the forefront of Anthony’s mind since the Knicks would have paid for the buyout. The movement of Carmelo could have a big impact on the landscape of the NBA.
