Melo has been linked with a switch to the Bulls in the summer.
New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony jokingly conceded that he thought a “Melo to Chicago” sign he saw during Sunday’s loss to the Bulls “was a good sign”.
The 29-year-old is set to test free agency this summer, and despite hinting at a willingness to take less money and re-sign with the Knicks during the All-Star break, the team’s continuing problems this season have reignited talk of a potential exit.
Anthony admitted that the loss to Chicago on Sunday was “embarrassing” and he was struggling to see next year as he tries to remained focused on the task in hand this season.
However, with the Knicks’ season slipping away as they fall further out of contention for the playoffs, Anthony may have less time than he had imagined before having to consider his options.
“It was a good sign,” Melo said to reporters after the game with a laugh. “It was a good sign. I don’t know what you want me to say about that.”
While that clearly doesn’t indicate much in terms of a desire to join Chicago, it has inevitably sparked speculation over his future again as with no cap room and few assets, the Knicks are likely to return to a similar roster next season, which would not help Melo in his bid for immediate success.
Meanwhile, the Bulls are in a tricky situation themselves in terms of staying under the cap, as although they are expected to use the amnesty clause on Carlos Boozer, that will not necessarily clear enough room for Anthony.
It is widely reported that they would have to sacrifice another piece in order to make the move work, with Taj Gibson’s name regularly coming up in talks of clearing space and possibly receiving substantial assets in return given his rising value and ability on the court.
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