Carmelo wanted the cash so he signed with the Knicks instead of with a team that could compete for title. I will never criticize any player for taking more money, but with that being said, at least in the short term (and possibly the long term) Melo has to suffer.
Depending on whose report you believe, Melo is already thinking about leaving NYC or he is committed long-term to the Knicks.
Let’s start with New York Post.
Five months after swearing his allegiance to New York and signing a five-year, $124 million contract, sources told The Post the All-Star forward would be open to dropping his no-trade clause if team president Phil Jackson strikes a deal with a team Anthony would like to play for.
Here is what ESPN has to be say.
“Carmelo, as always, is committed to the Knicks,” Leon Rose, Anthony’s agent, said in a text message to ESPNNewYork.com on Friday. There have never been discussions about trades or wanting to leave New York. Any story, rumor, report to the contrary is utter nonsense.”
One brilliant thing in Melo’s contract is if he does get traded a 15% trade kicker would be added to his deal, so more money and a better team.
I think for now he is going to see how it goes, but don’t be shocked if down the road he asks out.