Three teams are being linked with the Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks - the Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Clippers and Boston Celtics. The latest trade rumors have revealed that the Cavs are looking to fend off both the Clippers and Celtics to form their own "Big 4" by adding Anthony.
According to Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe, Anthony is willing to waive his no-trade clause to move to the Celtics. The only problem is Celtics GM Danny Ainge does not want to waste their young assets to acquire an aging star.
Anthony is also reportedly open to joining the Cavaliers and Clippers. However, the Cavs already turned down the Anthony-for-Kevin Love swap while the Clippers are not willing to let go of Chris Paul, Blake Griffin or DeAndre Jordan.
The Knicks have been openly shopping Anthony as they are likely heading for a rebuilding process. Phil Jackson built this season's Knicks to compete but they are not expected to even make the playoffs. Nevertheless, the Knicks have Kristaps Porzingis to build around if they move on from Anthony.
As for the Cavaliers, they are reportedly interested in acquiring Anthony but they are not willing to let go of Love. According to Sporting News, the Cavs want to form their own "Big 4" that consists of LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, Love and Anthony.
It is to combat the "Big 4" of the Golden State Warriors that have Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson. The Cavaliers are the defending champions but they are not playing good basketball since the new year started.
If the Cavaliers acquire Anthony, it will make Cleveland the favorite to win the NBA championship. He takes a lot of pressure off of James. He can also help limit the minutes of "The King" as he prepares his body for the playoffs.
Anthony can also ease the scoring from Irving in a good way as he also limits the minutes of the injury-prone point guard. Finally, he can also serve as a backup for Love, who is nursing a bad back for the past several games.
However, it should be noted that these are just purely speculative at the moment. The Knicks and Cavs have until February 23 to make a deal for Anthony. Check out the video below to watch Anthony score 24 points against the Washington Wizards last Tuesday.