The Carmelo Anthony trade chatter seems to have quieted down significantly, and that is probably because there is not much of a market for his services. In fact, Anthony still claims the New York Knicks have yet to approach him about a potential trade.
Carmelo said again today that he hasn't thought about his no-trade clause because management hasn't talked to him about any possible deals.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) February 15, 2017
Anthony holds a full no-trade clause, so the Knicks can’t trade him without his permission. While it certainly seems like Phil Jackson wants Carmelo gone, apparently talks have not progressed to the point where Anthony even needs to consider whether he will approve a trade or not.
On Tuesday, Anthony was asked if he believes the current Knicks team will remain intact after the All-Star break and Feb. 23 trade deadline.
“I think so. I really don’t know what’s being said or what’s going on kind of behind the scene,” he said, per Fred Kerber of the New York Post. “Right now, this is the team that’s going to be after the break, and that’s what we have to look forward to.”
Even through all the public shots and immature tweets Jackson has sent, Anthony seems to genuinely want to remain in New York. It’s worth noting that both Jackson and the Knicks can opt-out of Phil’s contract after the season, so it’s possible Carmelo could block any trade and hope Jackson hits the bricks. That may end up being the only resolution for the team.
