Report: Jackson determined to trade Melo, reached out to Celtics, Clippers
New York Knicks president Phil Jackson "is determined to rid the roster" of Carmelo Anthony and his contract, and reached out to the Los Angeles Clippers and Boston Celtics in addition to the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to The Vertical's Adrian Wojnarowski and Chris Mannix.
The latest "Melo"-drama began percolating almost two weeks ago, when Jackson confidante Charley Rosen wrote that Anthony - who has a no-trade clause and no stated desire to leave New York - would only accept a deal to the Cavs or Clippers. Anthony has proclaimed his desire to remain with the Knicks unless the team is full-out rebuilding, and cast doubts on the sourcing of Rosen's story.
Related: Knicks, Clippers reportedly discussing Melo deal that doesn't include Big 3
Jackson's options are limited because of the no-trade clause, and franchises such as the Cavaliers and Clippers appear to make sense given the close friendships Anthony has with stars on those teams - namely LeBron James and Chris Paul. While the Cavs and Knicks reportedly talked, the rumor has been dismissed by James as "fantasy basketball." The Celtics now logically enter the fray as a team stocked with potential trade assets.
However, the Clippers are a team that would interest Anthony, according to the report.