"So you're saying there's a chance?" The New York Knicks continue to tell themselves they are still the frontrunners to sign Carmelo Anthony in free agency and they just might be right. The guard is currently on his free agency tour around the U.S, visiting multiple teams in the process and New York is the final stop on the trip. Phil Jackson and company remain confident that in the end the Knicks will sign Anthony despite pressure from other teams.
According to Marc Berman from the New York Post, Knicks' gut feeling is that Anthony will return to New York for a long-term contract. Anthony opted out of his contract in favor of becoming a free agent and many believed that there was little to no chance he re-sign with the team. The Knicks traded away Tyson Chandler and Raymond Felton after the decision and have yet to show serious interest in any other free agents as they wait for Anthony's decision.
The Chicago Bulls could be helping New York out. The Bulls were considered the frontrunners for Anthony. The guard met with the team on Tuesday. Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson were present in the meeting. Derrick Rose held a private workout to prove his knees are healthy. However, according to the Post, the Bulls are offering Anthony $16 million per season over the next four years. On the other hand, the Knicks can offer the guard $22.5 million over five years. That is a large price difference. If Chicago is going to offer a better deal they must dump Carlos Boozer, Mike Dunleavy and Jimmy Butler. That gets rid of quality depth on the roster.
The Knicks are trying to persuade Anthony with money and an improved roster. The team acquired point guard Jose Calderon who is an upgrade from any other option New York had on their roster. The Knicks have been linked to Pau Gasol, but likely cannot afford both Anthony and the $10 million the center wants in free agency. Mike Miller might be a strong option. He is a strong 3-point shoot, hitting 46 percent of his shots last season with the Memphis Grizzlies. He played under veteran's minimum and could be willing to do the same again for the Knicks.
The Knicks cannot afford more marquee players outside of Anthony. The guard will have to determine what he wants more, a championship or money. The Knicks are likely not set up yet to be contenders. Jackson plans on making his move in free agency 2015, targeting Kevin Love and LaMarcus Aldridge. Anthony would need to believe in the long-term plan for New York.
