New York Knicks: 5 potential Carmelo Anthony trades

2. Houston Rockets

The first step toward acquiring Anthony has already taken place, and it’s possibly the most influential move so far this offseason.

In trading for nine-time All-Star Chris Paul, the Rockets not only provided head coach Mike D’Antoni another elite weapon at his disposal, they also made the franchise an even more attractive destination for prospective players.

And it appears the Rockets and Anthony have a mutual interest.

Recently speaking with Colin Cowherd on The Herd, Morey detailed explained that he was likely not done dealing:

"“We obviously aren’t done….I think to win the title you need as many Team USA Basketball players as you can get as possible….The more USA Basketball players you can have on your team, the better it is.”"

This is clearly an indirect reference to Anthony, who last year made his fourth and final appearance at the Olympic Games for Team USA.

Wanting a player of Anthony’s caliber is one thing. However, putting forward a trade proposition that would satisfy the Knicks is another. In order to get things done, a third team would need to be included:

The third team involved is the Oklahoma City Thunder who are presented an enticing proposition. Although they move on from a key rotation player, they receive an excellent stretch option in Ryan Anderson from the Rockets. And as compensation for taking on the three years and $60 million remaining on Anderson’s contract, the Thunder receive the Rockets’ top-three protected 2018 first round pick. Shawn Long is also included for salary cap purposes.

On the Knicks side, they receive Enes Kanter and the Thunder’s lottery-protected 2018 first round selection. They also receive guard Tim Quarterman for salary cap purposes.

Finally, the Rockets simply receive their desired target in Anthony.