With Carmelo announcing over the weekend that he officially opted out of his contract this becomes a major step for him and his career. Melo, who has yet to win or even contend in a very weak and dismal Eastern Conference has a pretty simple decision when it comes to winning. With the acquisition of Phil Jackson in March and Derek Fisher being added as the head coach, the Knick’s showed some life in trying to keep the 11 year veteran. However with his decision to depart over the weekend there are a few questions that go unanswered. What is it Melo really wants? Money? A championship? One of the leagues best all time scorers? Whatever the answer is, these questions will determine where he ultimately ends up.
Chicago looks to be the early front runners for Carmelo and in terms of winning right now there is no better fit for him. He would have a fantastic point guard in Derrick Rose as well as some of the best defenders in the NBA with Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson (if the bulls can hold onto Taj). The Bulls are desperate for a true scorer and if Derrick Rose can stay healthy they will be an immediate title contender in the Eastern Conference next season. However, at 30 years of age this is likely Carmelo’s last significant move in the NBA and he must evaluate his career up to this point.
Melo could stay in New York with players like Raymond Felton, J.R. Smith and Andrea Bargnani and also make a lot of money doing it (129 million dollars) but why would he want to? He and the Knick's both have proven that this relationship will never work other than for money. The Knicks have done nothing the past three seasons since Anthony has dominated on offense and in the cap space. With Anthony posting some of the best numbers of his career this past season, the Knicks as a whole failed to do the same finishing ninth in a weak Eastern Conference with next season looking dim as well. No first round pick, no cap room and players that are a half step away from free agency give little hope to a squad in 2014-15. If Melo returns to the Knicks it will be for one reason and one reason only: the money. Now is the time for Carmelo to figure out his priorities and the choice is clear; he needs to chose legacy over money because if he were to retire now he would only be remembered as a scorer and not one of the games elite.
Carmelo should explore his options especially with teams like the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers getting thrown into the mix. Let's see if he truly wants to contend for an NBA Championship.
-Derick Riggs
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