Knicks' Anthony out Thursday vs. Bulls

Carmelo Anthony will not be in the New York Knicks' lineup Thursday against the Chicago Bulls, with the All-Star forward still bothered by his troublesome left knee.

Anthony said earlier on Thursday that multiple people have advised him to "shut it down" and take some time off. "But at the end of the day, it's hard for me to just do that right now in the midst of what's happening with the team and this season," Anthony added.

Anthony missed a game last Wednesday against the San Antonio Spurs, but had suited up for New York's last three games. It was reported last week that Anthony may require surgery on the knee, which has been bothering him for the majority of the season.

Anthony is averaging 23.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists through 24 games, with the 5-22 Knicks performing seven points per 100 possessions better with their All-Star on the court.