As much as Carmelo Anthony wants to stay in New York, this Phil Jackson cold war is not going his way. Neither is his time on the court, frankly. The New York Knicks just aren’t good.
Jackson addressed the media today after the season ended for the team, telling reporters that he “would be better off somewhere else.” The Knicks added the likes of Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah during the offseason, but the team still finished with a losing season at 31-51. This would be their fourth in a row.
Today’s press conference pretty much hints at the trade talks between Melo and the front office ramping up before the NBA Draft and the organization wanting to rebuild around Kristaps Porzingis. Phil bluntly said Anthony does not fit his system:
“We’ve not been able to win with (Anthony) on the court at this time. I think the direction with our team is that he’s a player that would be better off somewhere else and using his talent somewhere where he can win or chase that championship. Right now we need players that are be really active. Can play every single play. Defensively and offensively. That’s really important for us.”
Ouch, Carmelo.
The only question now is which team is willing to take his salary and whether or not he would waive his trade clause to pack his bags out of NYC. Obviously he wants to chase a championship, but the likelihood of him going to that caliber of a team is harder, unless the Cavaliers can package a few pieces for the Knicks and break up their current squad.
Update: Carmelo Anthony Responds
OS REWIND: Scottie Pippen Praises Carmelo Anthony & Blames Phil Jackson for Knicks