Carmelo Anthony’s move to the East will have wide ranging fantasy impact. The leading suitor are the New Jersey Nets, with Melo’s preferred destination the New York Knicks. Anthony must sign a 65-million dollar three year extension for ANY deal to take place.
Lets break down how Melo’s move changes the franchises involved.
The Nuggets package includes:
Carmelo Anthony– Would become the face of the franchise. Much needed with the move to the new palace in Brooklyn. Would create good inside/outside game with Brook Lopez. Arguably the top scorer in the NBA.
Chauncey Billups– Takes over the point, would be a key piece as Nets try to land a playoff spot NEXT season. Would become a bigger scoring option with Lopez and Anthony only other threats.
Renaldo Balkman– Has only played one game since December.
Shelden Williams– Deep reserve, just another body to balance the cap.
Melvin Ely– See Shelden Williams.
In return, the Nets package:
Derrick Favors– The key to deal, huge upside and would become future of Nuggets. Would continue to get minutes but the learning curve has been steep after only one college season.
Devin Harris– Injury prone point would takeover Billups spot. Talented but misses far too many games. Trade doesn’t alter health.
Ben Uzoh– Rookie guard insurance to Harris’ lack of durability.
Troy Murphy– reportedly would pass through Denver on way to another team via trade.
4 first round picks– accumuated in hopes of King James taking his talents to join Jay-Z this past summer.
The Knicks package has been evolving.
Timofey Mozgov– The latest demand by the Nuggets. The 7’1″ Russian is young and cheap. Would allow Denver to move Nene via trade, possibly to Houston.
Danilo Gallinari– Knicks balked at first, but eventually added him to package. Big time shooter with great height at SF (6’10”). Has thrived in fast paced New York offense. Adjustment in Denver may have impact.
Raymond Felton– Has had a nice comeback season, would assume point in Denver. Has been a pleasant free agent surprise for NY. Will score and dish after finding game that was lost in Charlotte.
Wilson Chandler– Has continued to emerge this season, would man the front court with Gallinari. Nice combo forward who logs heavy minutes and can score.
Eddy Curry– Hasn’t played, won’t play- simply expiring contract.
1st round pick– Reportedly from Minnesota who is interested in Knicks forward Anthony Randolph.
Note: Deron Williams rumored to be interested in joining the Knicks when he becomes a free agent in 2012.
Williams is denying those rumors but certainly do nothing to hurt New York’s chances and Melo’s continued interest.
