Carmelo Anthony's free agency stock continues to sky rocket even if the New York Knicks' record continues to plummet. The free-agent-to-be will certainly have some decisions to make come the offseason. The Knicks are certainly at risk for not making the postseason so free agency could become his focus. As many speculate where he will be headed, one team has emerged as a front runner.
Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports reports that if Anthony were to leave the Knicks, the Chicago Bulls are his team of choice in free agency. The NBA insider writes that Anthony appears more likely to jump ship with the decaying roster in New York. The uncertainly of the franchise's future over the next few years have Anthony leaning towards leaving despite the salary offer and Chicago is the best team to join.
Chicago has made it clear they intend on making a run at a top free agent this summer whether it is Anthony or someone like LeBron James. After trading Luol Deng, the team is under the salary cap. If they opt to amnesty Carlos Boozer there will be more room for a max contract. Getting Derrick Rose back healthy along with Joakim Noah make the Bulls an interesting destination.
One team that could be out of the running is the Los Angeles Lakers. Anthony and Kobe Bryant are good friends with plenty of positive history together, but the Lakers are waiting until 2015 to sign a big name. Bryant said he has no plans on being active in the recruiting of free agents and that includes Anthony.
"Well, everybody wants to play in Los Angeles," Bryant said, via ESPNLosAngeles.com. "I mean New York is a beautiful place, don't get me wrong, but it is colder than s--- out here. You know, palm trees and beaches obviously are a little more appealing. All jokes aside, I think that players, when that time comes, will have to make the best decision for them and their families. I try not to think about it too much. If he wants to call me for advice later as a friend, I will be more than happy to give it to him."
The Lakers will have the salary cap space to sign Anthony if they so choose. However, Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak has said he intends to build through the draft before signing big players in 2015.
Anthony could still decide to stay in New York. The Knicks have the upper hand with one thing, money. New York can offer Anthony a five-year deal and almost $30 million more while any other team can only offer a four-year contract.