Carmelo Anthony guarded by Otto Porter: trading jerseys? (Photo : Patrick Smith | Getty Images Sport)
The NBA trade rumors continue for Carmelo Anthony even with the no-trade clause.
Because of that clause, real contenders to trade for Melo are limited, but the Washington Wizards could definitely be part of that elite group.
While everyone talks about Kevin Durant's possible homecoming, it should also be considered that Carmelo Anthony moved to Baltimore when he was 9 years old and spent his formative years there. He even joined a recent protest rally as covered by the NY Post.
At the moment, the Washington Wizards are full-on 'Kevin Durant or bust' mode, but the team is struggling as of late. If this continues, the season outlook may change from "being a contender to impress Durant" to trying to survive and make the playoffs," especially with the Eastern Conference suddenly becoming more competitive.
A recent article by Zach Lowe, now in ESPN has a scenario where the Washington Wizards would trade for Carmelo Anthony. This is when the Wiz realize that their more illustrious hometown kid would stay West.
"If the Wiz decide that snagging Kevin Durant is a long-shot play, they could chase a sure thing by offering Nene, Otto Porter, and two first-round picks for Anthony."
The Knicks will have added flexibility as Nene is an expiring contract. The Knicks could also use the extra draft picks to rebuild and Otto Porter could evolve into a starting small forward.
For the Wizards, they could become the Eastern juggernaut with John Wall, Bradley Beal and Carmelo Anthony. Melo would probably not pass up a chance to be a hometown hero and at the same time, avoid the list of players retiring without a championship.
