The hits just keep on coming for the struggling New York Knicks. The team is off to a terrible start to the year, there are rumors of locker room dissent and that the players hate the new offense, and now, it seems like their superstar small forward may want to leave town.
Former NBA Star Not Sure Why Anyone Would Want To Play With Melo
During the offseason, Carmelo Anthony made headlines when he opted to re-sign with the Knicks, and he agreed to a five-year deal worth $124 million. At the time, many wondered how Carmelo could possibly choose to return to New York if he actually was serious about winning championships, especially when the Chicago Bulls tried so hard to bring him to the Windy City.
Now, according to media reports, Anthony has already started entertaining the idea of donning another uniform. Anthony has a no-trade clause in his contract, but he apparently will consider waiving it if team president Phil Jackson can work out a deal with a team that Anthony wants to play for.
"He thought things would be better than this, but he still wants to stick it out for now,'' said one source. "He trusts Phil, but I think he's afraid of Phil.''
Melo Regrets Choosing New York Over Chicago?
This news comes on the heels of reports of a rift between Carmelo and Tim Hardaway Jr. It may be difficult to find a trade partner for Anthony due to the high annual salary in his deal and his recent knee troubles. Anthony is able to be traded anytime after next week, as the NBA prevents players who sign as free agents from being traded prior to December 15.
Anthony's agent indicated that the superstar is not considering waiving his no-trade clause. "Carmelo, as always, is committed to the Knicks," said Leon Rose, Anthony's agent, in a text message. "There have never been discussions about trades or wanting to leave New York. Any story, rumor, report to the contrary is utter nonsense."
Anthony has previously indicated that his patience is not limitless and that he wants to play for a contender before his skills inevitably start to decline as he ages. Even if he is not considering a trade yet, it seems like the prospect may crop up as the trade deadline nears.
The Knicks are currently 4-20 on the year and have lost their last 10 games.
Below, you can see Melo talking about his knee injury.
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