NBA Trade Rumors: 5 stars most likely to be dealt during 2017 NBA Draft

1. Carmelo Anthony, SF, New York Knicks

Most of the guys on this list have been mentioned time and time again as potential trade candidates this offseason. However, none had their team presidents publicly stated that he “would be better off somewhere else” (via Mike Vorkunov). Well that’s exactly what Phil Jackson did in regard to Carmelo Anthony.

Put simply, Jackson is going to do everything he can to move Carmelo this offseason. While that eagerness will hurt the value teams are willing to kick back to them, the Knicks appear destined for a future without their scoring machine. In the end, though, that’s their problem and not ours.

At this point, it seems as if every big-market team has been connected to Anthony in some way. The Boston Celtics were mentioned as a potential landing spot, and there was speculation the Lakers might also be interested. Depending on the Knicks’ asking price, just about any team could enter the mix for the 33-year-old small forward — assuming he waives his no-trade clause.

So here we are, with Carmelo leading the way in terms of star trade candidates. It’s a good look for Jackson and the mess that he’s made in the Big Apple. However, it could lead to a blockbuster deal during the draft, and who doesn’t love a big-time trade to shake things up?

Next: Early predictions for top NBA free agents

A lot can change between now and June 22. However, at this point in time, it seems like Anthony is the star most likely to be dealt during the draft.