Carmelo Anthony continues to stress that he will not be departing the New York Knicks for free agency this summer. Despite the struggles the team has faced so far this season, sitting with four wins after ending a nine-game losing streak, Anthony intends to stay committed to the team. Instead of leaving, Anthony is preparing his recruiting abilities of other players and at the top of the list is Rajon Rondo.
Jason Jordan of USA Today interviewed Steve Smith, the high school basketball coach of Rondo, who gave some interesting perspective at the point guard's future. Currently rehabbing a torn ACL, Rondo has spent some time in the area an dropped some hints over what he might be up to sooner rather than later. Smith was certain Rondo would bounce back from injury, but it might not be with Boston.
"No, I think he should be fine," Smith said. "He took a long time off and he's rehabbed the right way. Whether he stays in Boston or not who knows. I know, talking to Melo , he's recruiting Rajon to come to New York. Melo thinks he'll come, too. You never know about that stuff though. I think either way, Rajon will be fine."
Say that one more time, Smith. Anthony is recruiting Rondo to play for the Knicks? Before any of this can be discussed, Anthony must first re-sign with the New York Knicks. It is no secret that the forward is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. All signs point to him staying, mainly because the Knicks can offer him the most money over any other team. The second obstacle is Rondo's health.
The point guard continues to sit out after tearing his ACL towards the end of last season. The point guard will visit Dr. James Andrews for a routine checkup to see how the knee is before receiving clearance to start playing again. Team president Danny Ainge is not offering up any timetable for his return, but is hopeful it will come by the All-Star break.
The Knicks do not have the salary cap space to make a trade of Rondo work right now. However, 2015 the team will have space and could be an interesting fit for New York. With the interest ramping up around the point guard, Boston will likely consider trading him at some point this season. The Knicks are also reportedly targeting Kevin Love to sign with the team in 2015. Everything starts with Anthony. If he stays, the players will come.