Report: Knicks targeting Carmelo Anthony as potential free agent acquisition

The New York Knicks have been connected to various big-name free agents, but one veteran offers a familiar face to MSG. 37-year-old Carmelo Anthony has seen interest by president Leon Rose, who has a long-standing relationship with the 10x All-Star.

Having represented him at CAA, Rose is keen on potentially bringing Anthony back to New York after averaging 13.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and shooting 42% from the field last season with the Portland Trailblazers. Carmelo remains a solid three-point shooter, connecting on 41% of his shots over 4.7 attempts per game. He only started three games last year, averaging 24.5 minutes, but can still act as a solid rotational piece who can contribute offensively.

Ultimately, New York is desperate for more offensive production, especially with several players preparing to hit the open market, including Reggie Bullock, Alec Berks, and Derrick Rose. With three primary shooters potentially on their way out, finding cheaper veterans will be ideal for solving a few deficiencies. In addition, Anthony’s experience will help mold some of the younger players, a positive contribution that shouldn’t be overlooked.

The last time Anthony wore the New York Knicks logo was back in 2016 when he was 32-years-old. It has been five years since he’s played a meaningful game at Madison Square Garden, and with the team looking to make another playoff push this upcoming year, there’s no question he can provide some value. However, he doesn’t offer much defensively, which goes against Tom Thibodeau’s strategy. Nonetheless, asking him to provide offense when called upon is his best utility.

Anthony is coming off a one-year, $2.56 million deal with Portland, so he would be quite cheap to bring back. The expectation is that Burks and Bullock will both receive pay increases this off-season, but given Anthony’s age, the Knicks could secure his services on a very cheap contract.