The NBA calendar year is about to come to a close, as the teams around the NBA patiently wait for the right opportunity during the July 1 free agency period. However, teams on the other end of the spectrum, such as the New York Knicks, continue their ongoing dilemma.
President Phil Jackson has a ton on his plate with the Knicks’ current crisis. Both Kristaps Porzingis and Carmelo Anthony are facing commitment issues, as the Knicks deliberate between rebuilding and buying in towards a winning culture.
The situation regarding Anthony remains tricky, with his no-trade clause in tact, while also pondering a move to a winning culture. However, recent news from Anthony’s estranged wife, La La Anthony, stated this his mindset is towards remaining close with his family, via ESPN’s Ian Begley:
Carmelo Anthony’s estranged wife, La La Anthony, said on “The Wendy Williams Show” on Tuesday that the New York Knicks star’s top priority going forward is to remain close to their 10-year-old son, Kiyan.
Anthony averaged 22.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 34.3 minutes per game, while shooting 43.3 percent from the field and 35.9 percent from three-point range.
Jackson has made it clear that his preference is to trade Anthony this offseason. On the other hand, Anthony has tried to engage the Knicks on buyout talks. However, that result would mean the Knicks get no return on Anthony other than his cap situation.
If the Knicks were dead set on departing with Anthony, a trade would make more sense, as it could provide a future asset for the organization.
The 10-time All-Star has made it clear that his son is a top priority, coinciding with his no-trade clause and which situation he would waive it over. The Knicks have missed the playoffs in four consecutive seasons, with the Porzingis situation only adding to the troubled culture.
