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New York Knicks president Phil Jackson is reportedly determined to trade Carmelo Anthony. Earlier this month, Anthony responded to an article written by one of Jackson’s former assistants which said it’s time to trade Carmelo. Anthony responded by saying they should talk if that’s true. Melo and Phil eventually had that meeting and Jackson asked Anthony if he wanted to stay with the Knicks. Anthony reaffirmed his commitment to the team, but it was believed that Jackson is committed to trading him. Yesterday another report came out saying the Knicks tried to trade Anthony to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Kevin Love, but the Cavs rejected the offer. Apparently, it is true that Jackson is trying to trade Anthony because another report today said he called two other teams.
Carmelo has a no-trade clause in his contract, so in order for Jackson to successfully do this trade, he has to make sure it’s a team Anthony would be willing to go to.
According to The Vertical sources, Jackson contacted the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Clippers in addition to the Cavs, to gauge their interest in a potential trade for Anthony.
Jackson is determined to rid the roster of Anthony and his contract, and start rebuilding around Kristaps Porzingis, league sources said.
The Clippers are a team that would interest Anthony, league sources said.
Anthony makes $24.6 million this season and has $54 million remaining over the next two years of his contract. His deal includes a 15 percent trade kicker and a player option for the 2018-19 season
The NBA trade deadline is Feb. 23.
