UPDATE (9:19 PM PST): According to Yahoo! Sports’ Marc J. Spears, Carmelo Anthony’s decision is not expected to linger late into the week:
After contemplating his options this weekend,free agent Carmelo Anthony's decision isn't expected to linger late into the week,a source said
— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) July 7, 2014
After meeting with numerous teams including the Los Angeles Lakers this past week, All-Star forward Carmelo Anthony is expected to make his decision by Monday at the earliest according to USA Today’s Sam Amick:
A decision is expected from Anthony by Monday, though the ever-present fluidity of free agency means there is no definitive timeline.
While the Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls offer Anthony his best chance to win his first championship, most believe he will ultimately re-sign with the Knicks — even going as far to say that LeBron James is more likely to leave now than him in free agency.
For the Lakers, the franchise is looking to quickly rebuild from the worst season since moving to Los Angeles. After drafting Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson, the team is looking to add one of the biggest free agents available in Anthony. With the team offering the All-Star a max contract at four years, $97 million, it will be interesting to see where he ultimately signs.
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If the Lakers are able to sign Anthony this summer, there is belief that Pau Gasol will eventually re-sign to form a Big Three of their own. Although Kobe Bryant was not able to make the pitch meeting on Thursday due to a schedule change, the five-time champion is expected to reach out to influence his friend to join forces with him in Los Angeles.
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