With free agency looming this summer, and the Knicks having a sub par season it seems like a perfect time for Carmelo Anthony to leave Gotham City. Carmelo Anthony will miss the playoffs the first time in his career. This season was a huge disappointment for the Knicks after finishing second in the Eastern Conference during the 2012-2013 season. Prior to the season many experts had the Knicks as a legitimate threat in the East, but they finished far from what was predicted. Though, expectations may seem high when looking at the Knicks roster they have many holes on their team despite having one of the highest payrolls in the NBA.
The Knicks have four front court players making over $10 million per season (Stoudemire, Bargnani, Chandler, and Anthony) and they have blindly invested money in back court mates Raymond Felton and J.R. Smith. Despite all of the money tied up in the players mentioned the Knicks need to find a way to get a point guard and a big man that can clean the glass. Many thought Iman Shumpert would be a good player, but he has regressed as a player since coming into the NBA. The Knicks do have a promising player in Tim Hardaway Jr, and Championship connoisseur Phil Jackson in the front office, but is it worth hanging around in New York?
It may seem like a no brainer to leave the Knicks, but I think Melo should think twice about leaving. The Knicks can pay Melo more than any other team, and with the contract that Melo will command there will be minimal financial room to add any other quality players. Anthony did mention that he may be willing to take a pay cut, but I can’t see that happening. The Knicks have a playoff roster despite not making the playoffs. I know Mike Woodson helped changed the culture in New York after the mess Mike D’Antoni created, but a new coach is needed if Anthony comes back.
New coaches always bring new energy, and a new focus, and guys such as Lionel Hollins, Mark Jackson (if fired), and Stan Van Gundy could provide that for the Knicks. A new coaching regime, a few minor tweaks, and a few quality veterans can at least get the NYK back in the playoffs.
As great as a player Carmelo is the pressure of winning a championship isn’t really a topic of discussion for Anthony. Anthony not having a ring in his career at this point doesn’t scream failure as it would if LeBron James was still ring less. As long as Melo makes the playoffs, and continues his scoring binge people will be somewhat satisfied. With that said I don’t see Melo entering an environment such as the Chicago or the Lakers, where it is almost Championship or bust every season.
I think Melo can take the pressure, but he doesn’t have to take on that type of responsibility while in the “Big Apple”. The Knicks haven’t won a title since the 1970’s so that feeling isn’t there just yet.
I honestly feel that Melo will remain a Knick. He’s flourishing off the court with endorsements, and his wife Lala Anthony is continuing to build her brand in the bright New York City lights as well. Despite not making the playoffs this season Melo still had an All-NBA type season. I think Knicks fans can relax and look forward to seeing Melo for a few more seasons.
In the words of my main man Jalen Rose “Keep getting them checks Melo”, and there won’t be a need for the Anthony family to pack up another Uhaul.
Melo is staying. I just hope Phil Jackson convinces Melo NOT to opt out this season and do it next year. That would be the most gangsta move because it lines him up with LeBron and Bosh and everyone. But it also makes the Knicks better in salary cap space.