Carmelo Anthony and Phil Jackson engaged in a late-night, clandestine meeting earlier this week, apparently trying to gauge if the high-powered duo stand any chance of having a New York Knicks future together.

The New York Post reported the general manager and star player's rendezvous at Tribeca's American Cut steak house Tuesday night, and even though the so-called Black Room seats as many as 16 the two went at it face-to-face and without any interference for at least two hours.

Carmelo won't wait on Knicks

The 29-year-old Anthony is set to become a free-agent on July 1, and as the league's second leading scorer will almost assuredly have his pick of landing places.The Bulls, Lakers, Clippers and Rockets are already on record in asserting they plan to make a play for the high-scoring, still in-his-prime forward.

Anthony seemed to tire mightily of the Knicks losing this season and has stressed at this point in his career he is more concerned with winning than perhaps even earning the added $30 million the Knicks would be able to pay him in any max contract agreement.

Dr. J says Carmelo not franchise player

The Knicks finished the year 37-45, and out of the Eastern Conference playoffs. But with Jackson now on board as GM and Steve Kerr perhaps on the way as coach, the Knicks are hoping to convince Anthony to remain a part of the mix.

Following his season-ending exit- interview with Jackson, Anthony told The Post he could "listen to Phil all day.'' The Knicks are now hoping a couple hours can make a difference.

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