It’s no secret that the New York Knicks are open to trading Carmelo Anthony to any team that he would be willing to waive his no-trade clause for. Teams rumored to be a potential landing spot for Anthony include the Los Angeles Clippers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and Oklahoma City Thunder. The Cavaliers already reportedly shot down an offer from the Knicks, and now you can cross the Celtics off of the list as well. From ESPN:
Sources told ESPN that the Boston Celtics let the Knicks know they have no interest in Anthony. There were exploratory talks between the teams last season.
Danny Ainge is making the right call here. Anthony, even with his value lowered due to the Knicks’ desperation, isn’t worth what Boston would have to give up for him. The Celtics would likely have to give up at least one strong role player (perhaps Jae Crowder or Avery Bradley) as well as a draft pick or a bright young talent (Jaylen Brown, Terry Rozier, or Marcus Smart).
Anthony wouldn’t help the Celtics with what has been their biggest problem this season – defense. Offensively speaking, Anthony’s iso-heavy style wouldn’t fit well with the Celtics’ scheme.
