NBA Trade Rumors: Knicks, Clippers Talk Carmelo-for-Griffin

Carmelo Anthony Blake Griffin
Carmelo Anthony Blake Griffin
New York NY USA New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony 7 and Los Angeles Clippers power forward Blake Griffin 32 battle for the rebound during the second half at Madison Square Garden Clippers won 102 88 Debby Wong USA TODAY Sports

The Knicks have failed to live up to expectations this season after capturing the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference in 2012, and their superstar, Carmelo Anthony, is a free agent after the season. Cue the NBA trade rumors.

According to reports, the circumstances have led Knicks officials to discuss a trade proposal with the Los Angeles Clippers for forward Blake Griffin.

Both teams have held internal discussions on the deal but are yet to have serious trade talks with the other as the Clippers are still unsure if they want to move their 24-year-old star forward.

Re-signing 29-year-old Anthony is assumed to be New York’s top offseason priority, but because of the team’s struggles this season, and Anthony’s reluctance to offer any sort of assurance, the organization feels they must consider all possible options.

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In an interview with the New York Daily News, one of Anthony’s former teammates said Anthony called the Knicks a “laughingstock” and the joke is still on them.

Back in 2010, Clippers point guard Chris Paul stated he and Anthony wanted to play together, leading to speculation the two would join forces in New York. According to sources, that sentiment remains in tact.

Since his contract is expiring after the season, it’s likely that any team that lands Anthony would also have to work out a long-term extension with him prior to pulling off any deal.

On the season, Anthony is averaging 26.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. Griffin is averaging 22.1 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists while shooting a strong 52 percent from the floor.

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Sam Spiegelman
Sam Spiegelman is a native New Yorker covering sports in New Orleans. He likes Game of Thrones way too much. Tweet him @samspiegs.