New York Knicks: Carmelo Anthony opens up on future, whats next?

The New York Knicks have had an eventful week as far as players speaking to the press, including the latest update on Carmelo Anthony and his future.

The New York Knicks have continued to move in a positive direction since the dismissal of Phil Jackson. While most organizations zig with the change of the general manager, the Knicks zagged.

The rebuild process has forward momentum, regardless of how foolish some may feel it was to put such a price tag on Tim Hardaway Jr.

Rumor after rumor has come to the surface of what may or may not happen to Carmelo Anthony, while he has remained adamant the Houston Rockets remain his only team of interest.

But wait, Carmelo Anthony addressed the media and well, he has mastered the craft of delivering a mixed message.

Deciphering Carmelo Anthony’s statement

During an interview with ESPN‘s Scott Van Pelt, Carmelo Anthony brought to light recent conversations with the Knicks front office.

"“Conversations have been had. There’ve been plenty of conversations that have been had on both sides. I think we both know where we stand as far as myself, as far as the Knicks organization. They know how I feel. I know how they feel. We have been in communication. At this point, I want to see what happens. I just want to enjoy my offseason despite everything that’s surrounding me.’’“I’m always optimistic,” Anthony said if he believes things will work out. “I’m very optimistic. I’ve had great conversations with new GM Scott Perry. He understands my mindset, where I’m at. My career right now, what I’m looking for. Things were put on the table. It was great dialogue, great conversations from both sides. Respectful from both sides.’’"

While it is nice to hear there is currently an open dialogue between Anthony and Scott Perry, it seems obvious that they are stuck in a stalemate.

Carmelo Anthony has the right to be interested in joining the Rockets, but the Knicks hold the same cards as him: They have every right to deny every deal until the right one comes along.

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Is Carmelo being held hostage by the Knicks? The answer is no. However, both parties have a set of keys with no door to unlock.

He stated “I think we both know where we stand as far as myself, as far as the Knicks organization.” However, that statement is very vague, and he has not approached the issue that it seems going to Cleveland is no longer on his wish list.

It has been stated multiple times, as well from the Knicks front office, that they intend to develop their younger players with or without Anthony. With that being said, Kyrie Irving doesn’t quite fit into that mindset trading away Frank Ntilkina or any future draft picks, although he’s still only 25.

Melo continued:

"“For me, it’s all about at this point winning a championship and having fun playing the game of basketball again and keeping that motivation and passion. Having fun and enjoying the game. At the end of the day, if you’re not enjoying the game, everything else is 10 times worse. I’ve never lost my passion or motivation for it. I’ve lost my joy for it a little bit because of everything that’s surrounded me but I’m starting to find my happiness now and joy for the game.’’"

This last bit is what provides a bit of intrigue. He mentions winning a championship is most important, but what player doesn’t have that at the top of their to-do-list anyway? Surely if there was a viable option for Carmelo to be sent to a legitimate contender while the Knicks got something worth their while, the trigger would have been pulled yesterday.

Carmelo stating he lost his joy for a bit makes sense as Phil Jackson dragged his name through a muddy swamp for the entire season. But Carmelo’s optimism going forward? It seems coincidental he decided to open up about the offseason after both Kristaps Porzingis and Mindaugas Kuzminskas both praised him in recent interviews.

So what can be expected next in the ongoing saga for the New York Knicks? With no realistic options for both parties to find an agreement, the proof is in the pudding.

Next: The biggest winners and losers of 2017 NBA free agency

Carmelo Anthony will likely remain a Knick this year unless the Rockets suddenly have something of better value to offer.

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New York Knicks: Carmelo Anthony opens up on future, what’s next?

By Randy Porga | Aug 4, 2017

The New York Knicks have had an eventful week as far as players speaking to the press, including the latest update on Carmelo Anthony and his future.

Deciphering Carmelo Anthony’s statement