*NBA THREAD* Abe will be missed (7 Viewers)

[Daywalker]

It's more then just wins/losses. Although Lopez and Harris didn't exactly set the world on fire last season.

Carmelo in Brooklyn is a draw. It's an opportunity to draw in some Knicks' fans. Lopez is good but he ain't a building block on a championship team. Carmelo is. Things can change quick. The way Favors is being hyped in here you add Carmelo and you aren't that far away.

The Russian guy wants to make a splash. Getting Carmelo would be just that.

If I was Denver I'd would take nothing less then Lopez from New Jersey. Rather just let Carmelo walk if that's what it came too. You just can't be a feeder team and serve up superstars on a platter.

D. Harris is inconsequential especially at his salary. Trading Carmelo for Favors and Harris is essentially Carmelo for the #3 pick in this past draft. It's not a close offer IMO.

 

[Kev4029]

What about Melo to the Wizards for Gilbert Arenas and change? Melo back near his home. Big Market. Play with John Wall and some other decent pieces.

You make Galinari and Curry sound like a good deal, Arenas has the worst contract in the NBA and one of the worst ever in all of sports. A washed up, injury riddled, ball hog pg, with a terrible and log contract, with a recent felony is exactly what you trade a 26 year old super star for. Even if none of the stuff I just listed was true, the nuggets already have Billups and Lawson so Arenas would be a poor choice.

 

[Kev4029]

It's more then just wins/losses. Although Lopez and Harris didn't exactly set the world on fire last season.Carmelo in Brooklyn is a draw. It's an opportunity to draw in some Knicks' fans. Lopez is good but he ain't a building block on a championship team. Carmelo is. Things can change quick. The way Favors is being hyped in here you add Carmelo and you aren't that far away.The Russian guy wants to make a splash. Getting Carmelo would be just that. If I was Denver I'd would take nothing less then Lopez from New Jersey. Rather just let Carmelo walk if that's what it came too. You just can't be a feeder team and serve up superstars on a platter.D. Harris is inconsequential especially at his salary. Trading Carmelo for Favors and Harris is essentially Carmelo for the #3 pick in this past draft. It's not a close offer IMO.

You would have to include a third team to take Harris and give the nuggets something in return. Maybe a team like Memphis or the Bobcats would have something to offer. If I were the nuggets I would also really push for Williams as well as Favors.ETA: Maybe something like this.... Carmelo, Chris Anderson, and Renaldo Balkman for Favors, Terrence Williams, Quinton Ross, Troy Murphy and a first rounder.Anderson gives them a decent running mate for Lopez in the front court who would focus on weak side defense and rebounding, Balkman is criminally underutilized in Denver and is a good player for 15 minutes a game at either forward spot doing nothing but hustling and getting rebounds, blocks, steals and easy buckets.Favors gives the Nuggs some hope for the future and Williams would fill Carmelo's spot in the line up and hopefully develop into a poor mans Brandon Roy. Murphy would be a one year filler and would make the money work, and would fill Kenyon's shoes for the year (while he is hurt) and Ross would probably be bought out or cut.Probably too much to ask for though.

 

[Kiddnets]

It's more then just wins/losses. Although Lopez and Harris didn't exactly set the world on fire last season.Carmelo in Brooklyn is a draw. It's an opportunity to draw in some Knicks' fans. Lopez is good but he ain't a building block on a championship team. Carmelo is. Things can change quick. The way Favors is being hyped in here you add Carmelo and you aren't that far away.The Russian guy wants to make a splash. Getting Carmelo would be just that. If I was Denver I'd would take nothing less then Lopez from New Jersey. Rather just let Carmelo walk if that's what it came too. You just can't be a feeder team and serve up superstars on a platter.D. Harris is inconsequential especially at his salary. Trading Carmelo for Favors and Harris is essentially Carmelo for the #3 pick in this past draft. It's not a close offer IMO.

You would have to include a third team to take Harris and give the nuggets something in return. Maybe a team like Memphis or the Bobcats would have something to offer. If I were the nuggets I would also really push for Williams as well as Favors.ETA: Maybe something like this.... Carmelo, Chris Anderson, and Renaldo Balkman for Favors, Terrence Williams, Quinton Ross, Troy Murphy and a first rounder.Anderson gives them a decent running mate for Lopez in the front court who would focus on weak side defense and rebounding, Balkman is criminally underutilized in Denver and is a good player for 15 minutes a game at either forward spot doing nothing but hustling and getting rebounds, blocks, steals and easy buckets.Favors gives the Nuggs some hope for the future and Williams would fill Carmelo's spot in the line up and hopefully develop into a poor mans Brandon Roy. Murphy would be a one year filler and would make the money work, and would fill Kenyon's shoes for the year (while he is hurt) and Ross would probably be bought out or cut.Probably too much to ask for though.

Nets would have to seriously consider this deal - seems fair....

 

[Walton Goggins]

No one would want a player like Favors if they are trying to rebuild. They'd be much better off getting an expiring contract and a 1st round pick that is about 20th overall.

You only go as far as your superstar and Favors has a higher chance of being a superstar compared to a expiring contract or a low 1st rounder.

Sorry. I should have ended that with . Favors is better than anything Houston has to offer.

Nuggets won't take that if Rockets make a legit offer with expiring contracts and multiple 1st round picks

 

[Kev4029]

It's more then just wins/losses. Although Lopez and Harris didn't exactly set the world on fire last season.Carmelo in Brooklyn is a draw. It's an opportunity to draw in some Knicks' fans. Lopez is good but he ain't a building block on a championship team. Carmelo is. Things can change quick. The way Favors is being hyped in here you add Carmelo and you aren't that far away.The Russian guy wants to make a splash. Getting Carmelo would be just that. If I was Denver I'd would take nothing less then Lopez from New Jersey. Rather just let Carmelo walk if that's what it came too. You just can't be a feeder team and serve up superstars on a platter.D. Harris is inconsequential especially at his salary. Trading Carmelo for Favors and Harris is essentially Carmelo for the #3 pick in this past draft. It's not a close offer IMO.

You would have to include a third team to take Harris and give the nuggets something in return. Maybe a team like Memphis or the Bobcats would have something to offer. If I were the nuggets I would also really push for Williams as well as Favors.ETA: Maybe something like this.... Carmelo, Chris Anderson, and Renaldo Balkman for Favors, Terrence Williams, Quinton Ross, Troy Murphy and a first rounder.Anderson gives them a decent running mate for Lopez in the front court who would focus on weak side defense and rebounding, Balkman is criminally underutilized in Denver and is a good player for 15 minutes a game at either forward spot doing nothing but hustling and getting rebounds, blocks, steals and easy buckets.Favors gives the Nuggs some hope for the future and Williams would fill Carmelo's spot in the line up and hopefully develop into a poor mans Brandon Roy. Murphy would be a one year filler and would make the money work, and would fill Kenyon's shoes for the year (while he is hurt) and Ross would probably be bought out or cut.Probably too much to ask for though.

Nets would have to seriously consider this deal - seems fair....

For the trade to happen it would have to come with the 3/65 extension, but I think its a good trade for both sides.

 

[Kiddnets]

It's more then just wins/losses. Although Lopez and Harris didn't exactly set the world on fire last season.Carmelo in Brooklyn is a draw. It's an opportunity to draw in some Knicks' fans. Lopez is good but he ain't a building block on a championship team. Carmelo is. Things can change quick. The way Favors is being hyped in here you add Carmelo and you aren't that far away.The Russian guy wants to make a splash. Getting Carmelo would be just that. If I was Denver I'd would take nothing less then Lopez from New Jersey. Rather just let Carmelo walk if that's what it came too. You just can't be a feeder team and serve up superstars on a platter.D. Harris is inconsequential especially at his salary. Trading Carmelo for Favors and Harris is essentially Carmelo for the #3 pick in this past draft. It's not a close offer IMO.

You would have to include a third team to take Harris and give the nuggets something in return. Maybe a team like Memphis or the Bobcats would have something to offer. If I were the nuggets I would also really push for Williams as well as Favors.ETA: Maybe something like this.... Carmelo, Chris Anderson, and Renaldo Balkman for Favors, Terrence Williams, Quinton Ross, Troy Murphy and a first rounder.Anderson gives them a decent running mate for Lopez in the front court who would focus on weak side defense and rebounding, Balkman is criminally underutilized in Denver and is a good player for 15 minutes a game at either forward spot doing nothing but hustling and getting rebounds, blocks, steals and easy buckets.Favors gives the Nuggs some hope for the future and Williams would fill Carmelo's spot in the line up and hopefully develop into a poor mans Brandon Roy. Murphy would be a one year filler and would make the money work, and would fill Kenyon's shoes for the year (while he is hurt) and Ross would probably be bought out or cut.Probably too much to ask for though.

Nets would have to seriously consider this deal - seems fair....

For the trade to happen it would have to come with the 3/65 extension, but I think its a good trade for both sides.

correct - no way NJ makes that deal without locking in an extension - I would think thats much better than anything Houston or NY could throw at Denver....Brooklyn gets to NY albeit Brooklyn and the NEts have a nice base with Harris, Morrow, Anthony, Anderson, Brook - probably fighting for a top 4 seed in the East with that lineup

 

[Mile High]

This whole thing stinks as a lifelong Nuggets fan.If they are looking to move him, Denver needs to get draft picks--bottom line. By getting rid of him it signals that the team is in full rebuild mode. The team needs options for the future, not some stiffs to try and make the fans believe this team has a chance. Melo goes, any hope of being a playoff team goes with him. As much as it pains me to say this, but if this is the direction the team is going in, blow the whole squad up. Keep Ty and maybe Nene--everyone else is available. Get a 3 year plan, follow the OKC model and then make a move.The whole thing just sucks...

Agree. Looks like the NBA is turning into a league of about 6 teams and the rest of the teams just development teams. I hope the owners just shut the league down for awhile.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

No one would want a player like Favors if they are trying to rebuild. They'd be much better off getting an expiring contract and a 1st round pick that is about 20th overall.

You only go as far as your superstar and Favors has a higher chance of being a superstar compared to a expiring contract or a low 1st rounder.

Sorry. I should have ended that with . Favors is better than anything Houston has to offer.

Nuggets won't take that if Rockets make a legit offer with expiring contracts and multiple 1st round picks

No one would want a player like Favors if they are trying to rebuild. They'd be much better off getting an expiring contract and a multiple 1st round picks that is are about 20th overall.

 

[Walton Goggins]

No one would want a player like Favors if they are trying to rebuild. They'd be much better off getting an expiring contract and a 1st round pick that is about 20th overall.

You only go as far as your superstar and Favors has a higher chance of being a superstar compared to a expiring contract or a low 1st rounder.

Sorry. I should have ended that with . Favors is better than anything Houston has to offer.

Nuggets won't take that if Rockets make a legit offer with expiring contracts and multiple 1st round picks

No one would want a player like Favors if they are trying to rebuild. They'd be much better off getting an expiring contract and a multiple 1st round picks that is are about 20th overall.

Sure and they would also love Lebron James. Favors has never been mentioned in any trade possibility and Melo doesn't want to get traded to a team that depletes some of it's main talent.Love the subtitle of the thread though, make sure and keep me in it going forward

 

[Kev4029]

If the best thing the Nuggets can get now is expirings and a couple mid 1st round picks, what is the incentive for them not to wait it out until the new cba and hope Melo signs before that? If he doesn't sign, make a sign and trade for the same picks. The only difference would be the chance, however small, that he signs plus the fact that they would have melo instead of a couple overpaid one year rentals this season.

People need to realize that the Nuggets hold a huge card in all of this that gives them a chance to retain melo... there is talk that the new cba could limit max salaries to 12 to 14 million, there is an 8 to 10 million dollar difference that could happen if he doesn't sign the extension. That is a whole #### load of money.

 

[Walton Goggins]

If the best thing the Nuggets can get now is expirings and a couple mid 1st round picks, what is the incentive for them not to wait it out until the new cba and hope Melo signs before that? If he doesn't sign, make a sign and trade for the same picks. The only difference would be the chance, however small, that he signs plus the fact that they would have melo instead of a couple overpaid one year rentals this season.

People need to realize that the Nuggets hold a huge card in all of this that gives them a chance to retain melo... there is talk that the new cba could limit max salaries to 12 to 14 million, there is an 8 to 10 million dollar difference that could happen if he doesn't sign the extension. That is a whole #### load of money.

Melo doesn't want to signMelo wants to leave

How does Denver hold the cards?

 

[saintfool]

If the best thing the Nuggets can get now is expirings and a couple mid 1st round picks, what is the incentive for them not to wait it out until the new cba and hope Melo signs before that? If he doesn't sign, make a sign and trade for the same picks. The only difference would be the chance, however small, that he signs plus the fact that they would have melo instead of a couple overpaid one year rentals this season.

People need to realize that the Nuggets hold a huge card in all of this that gives them a chance to retain melo... there is talk that the new cba could limit max salaries to 12 to 14 million, there is an 8 to 10 million dollar difference that could happen if he doesn't sign the extension. That is a whole #### load of money.

Melo doesn't want to signMelo wants to leave

How does Denver hold the cards?

Would Carmelo live to make $8-$10 million less a year playing for another team? Nuggets can ensure a far more lucrative contract - especially if the rumors of the CBA are to be believed - than if he simply signs are a free agent elsewhere. He needs to work with them if he wants the big money.

 

[Kev4029]

If the best thing the Nuggets can get now is expirings and a couple mid 1st round picks, what is the incentive for them not to wait it out until the new cba and hope Melo signs before that? If he doesn't sign, make a sign and trade for the same picks. The only difference would be the chance, however small, that he signs plus the fact that they would have melo instead of a couple overpaid one year rentals this season.

People need to realize that the Nuggets hold a huge card in all of this that gives them a chance to retain melo... there is talk that the new cba could limit max salaries to 12 to 14 million, there is an 8 to 10 million dollar difference that could happen if he doesn't sign the extension. That is a whole #### load of money.

Melo doesn't want to signMelo wants to leave

How does Denver hold the cards?

Like saintfool said, he might 60% as much money if he leaves, and I thiknk a lot of this stuff about him wanting to leave Denver is fabricated or blown out of proportion. If he was hell bent on leaving he would have come out and said it. Not saying he isn't looking at leaving, but its not a sure thing that he's gone either, especially with the huge amount of extra money.And if he wants to leave, there is no harm in keeping him for the next year if all they are going to get is expirings and picks anyway.

 

[Major]

No one would want a player like Favors if they are trying to rebuild. They'd be much better off getting an expiring contract and a 1st round pick that is about 20th overall.

You only go as far as your superstar and Favors has a higher chance of being a superstar compared to a expiring contract or a low 1st rounder.

Sorry. I should have ended that with . Favors is better than anything Houston has to offer.

Nuggets won't take that if Rockets make a legit offer with expiring contracts and multiple 1st round picks

I think it's fairly obvious that the Rockets are going to add someone of Melo/Iggy's caliber this year. And I'll go on record saying Yao will be inspired by Matt Schaub and make it through the season without any significant injuries.

 

[Kev4029]

No one would want a player like Favors if they are trying to rebuild. They'd be much better off getting an expiring contract and a 1st round pick that is about 20th overall.

You only go as far as your superstar and Favors has a higher chance of being a superstar compared to a expiring contract or a low 1st rounder.

Sorry. I should have ended that with . Favors is better than anything Houston has to offer.

Nuggets won't take that if Rockets make a legit offer with expiring contracts and multiple 1st round picks

I think it's fairly obvious that the Rockets are going to add someone of Melo/Iggy's caliber this year. And I'll go on record saying Yao will be inspired by Matt Schaub and make it through the season without any significant injuries.

I love rocket fans. There is no ####### way that you guys are getting Melo, and trading for iggy (which I find unlikely but not impossible) won't help you guys build a contender until you dump brooks for a real pg instead of a tall earl boykins.

 

[Major]

I think it's fairly obvious that the Rockets are going to add someone of Melo/Iggy's caliber this year. And I'll go on record saying Yao will be inspired by Matt Schaub and make it through the season without any significant injuries.

I love rocket fans. There is no ####### way that you guys are getting Melo, and trading for iggy (which I find unlikely but not impossible) won't help you guys build a contender until you dump brooks for a real pg instead of a tall earl boykins.

Unless NO trades Chris Paul for Aaron Brooks straight up, I doubt the Rockets will part with such a valuable player.

 

[Mile High]

If the best thing the Nuggets can get now is expirings and a couple mid 1st round picks, what is the incentive for them not to wait it out until the new cba and hope Melo signs before that? If he doesn't sign, make a sign and trade for the same picks. The only difference would be the chance, however small, that he signs plus the fact that they would have melo instead of a couple overpaid one year rentals this season.

People need to realize that the Nuggets hold a huge card in all of this that gives them a chance to retain melo... there is talk that the new cba could limit max salaries to 12 to 14 million, there is an 8 to 10 million dollar difference that could happen if he doesn't sign the extension. That is a whole #### load of money.

Melo doesn't want to signMelo wants to leave

How does Denver hold the cards?

Billups: Carmelo "has not once said he didn't want to be a Nugget''Chauncey Billups has Carmelo Anthony's ear arguably more than any other player in the NBA. The Nuggets teammates are good friends, and Billups already has given a bushel of advice to Anthony on his contract extension, the crux of which is this: Anthony should do what's best for him.

"I've had some very direct conversations with him that I would never share that with anybody else," said Billups this morning from his hotel room in Spain as he and the U.S. basketball team prepares to face Lithuania Saturday night in Madrid.

"But I think, for me, I try to just speak to him and just kind of help him and see if he needs my help in this whole process because it is a big decision for him. It's at a crucial time for him in his career and his life. It's a huge decision. It's something that's a big, big deal."

The veteran doesn't know how it will end, but Billups does not want to see Anthony traded and insists the Nuggets leading scorer isn't itching to leave Denver, either.

"He has not once said he didn't want to be a Nugget," Billups said. "He loves Denver, he loves the Nuggets, he loves the fans. So, it's a part of him that I'm sure is eating him up a little bit because he's taken all this press and he's not said one thing to support or to not support what they are saying. He's just trying to enjoy his summer, chill out and he's in every story. Honestly, I think that the publications and things are out of control."

The two have spoken at length on "three or four" occasions about Anthony's decision on whether he should sign a three-year, $65 million contract extension, Billups said.

Asked about rumors Anthony wants to leave the Nuggets and play for the Knicks about a week ago, Anthony said "I'm a Denver Nugget. I'm here, I'm with the Nuggets. I'm just taking my time, figuring out if I want to take that extension or not."

Subsequently, as more reports cite sources around Anthony claiming to know his intentions, the star himself has taken to Twitter to stem some of the growing tide.

Meanwhile, Billups said he's not taking sides, just giving advice.

"Of course my relationship is going to be more personal than business so it's tough for me to speak an unbiased mind to him, because I'm in the situation," Billups said. "I know what he means to the team, I know what he means to the city. So, of course, 100 percent, I want him back. As long as I'm playing I would like to finish my career playing with him. There's no question about that.

"But at the same time, it's a thin line because I want him to be happy and I want him to do everything he wants to do in his career and in his life. And if that doesn't involve the Nuggets, who am I to say 'man, that's not right.' or 'maybe you should do this'? No. He can do what he wants to do. If he asks me any questions I'm going to always be honest with him. And it would be personally for him, not what's best for me."

 

[Cliff Clavin]

I think it's fairly obvious that the Rockets are going to add someone of Melo/Iggy's caliber this year. And I'll go on record saying Yao will be inspired by Matt Schaub and make it through the season without any significant injuries.

I love rocket fans. There is no ####### way that you guys are getting Melo, and trading for iggy (which I find unlikely but not impossible) won't help you guys build a contender until you dump brooks for a real pg instead of a tall earl boykins.

Unless NO trades Chris Paul for Aaron Brooks straight up, I doubt the Rockets will part with such a valuable player.

Hmm...Brooks for PaulBattier and a pick for MeloJefferies for IguodalaI'm pretty sure these will all happen.

 

[Zaxxon]

I'm just here for the non-stop Rockets talk.

 

[Major]

I'm just here for the non-stop Rockets talk.

never underestimate the heart of a champion

 

[Walton Goggins]

If the best thing the Nuggets can get now is expirings and a couple mid 1st round picks, what is the incentive for them not to wait it out until the new cba and hope Melo signs before that? If he doesn't sign, make a sign and trade for the same picks. The only difference would be the chance, however small, that he signs plus the fact that they would have melo instead of a couple overpaid one year rentals this season.

People need to realize that the Nuggets hold a huge card in all of this that gives them a chance to retain melo... there is talk that the new cba could limit max salaries to 12 to 14 million, there is an 8 to 10 million dollar difference that could happen if he doesn't sign the extension. That is a whole #### load of money.

Melo doesn't want to signMelo wants to leave

How does Denver hold the cards?

Would Carmelo live to make $8-$10 million less a year playing for another team? Nuggets can ensure a far more lucrative contract - especially if the rumors of the CBA are to be believed - than if he simply signs are a free agent elsewhere. He needs to work with them if he wants the big money.

Melo to Nuggets "I want a sign and trade"Done

 

[Walton Goggins]

No one would want a player like Favors if they are trying to rebuild. They'd be much better off getting an expiring contract and a 1st round pick that is about 20th overall.

You only go as far as your superstar and Favors has a higher chance of being a superstar compared to a expiring contract or a low 1st rounder.

Sorry. I should have ended that with . Favors is better than anything Houston has to offer.

Nuggets won't take that if Rockets make a legit offer with expiring contracts and multiple 1st round picks

I think it's fairly obvious that the Rockets are going to add someone of Melo/Iggy's caliber this year. And I'll go on record saying Yao will be inspired by Matt Schaub and make it through the season without any significant injuries.

That would be awesome

 

[Walton Goggins]

I'm just here for the non-stop Rockets talk.

never underestimate the heart of a champion

I miss the Rudy T Taco Cabana radio commercials

 

[Kev4029]

If the best thing the Nuggets can get now is expirings and a couple mid 1st round picks, what is the incentive for them not to wait it out until the new cba and hope Melo signs before that? If he doesn't sign, make a sign and trade for the same picks. The only difference would be the chance, however small, that he signs plus the fact that they would have melo instead of a couple overpaid one year rentals this season.

People need to realize that the Nuggets hold a huge card in all of this that gives them a chance to retain melo... there is talk that the new cba could limit max salaries to 12 to 14 million, there is an 8 to 10 million dollar difference that could happen if he doesn't sign the extension. That is a whole #### load of money.

Melo doesn't want to signMelo wants to leave

How does Denver hold the cards?

Would Carmelo live to make $8-$10 million less a year playing for another team? Nuggets can ensure a far more lucrative contract - especially if the rumors of the CBA are to be believed - than if he simply signs are a free agent elsewhere. He needs to work with them if he wants the big money.

Melo to Nuggets "I want a sign and trade"Done

There is two ways for Melo could get out of here, first, the sign him to the extension during the season for an extend and trade or he gets traded after the new CBA comes into place (after July 1). So, if the Nuggets say we aren't trading you this season, but we will still happily sign you to the extension if you agree to stay from anytime from today until June 30 or we will agree to a sign and trade once free agency starts, Melo gets the choice of taking the money (the next 4 years including his 2011-2012 option year for 83.5 million) or risking loosing up to 35 million dollars over the next 4 years and being in NYC winning 40 games a year with Amare and a bunch of scrubs.

 

[Kiddnets]

Carmelo on the move now? Nets making their move? From Wojo -

Carmelo Anthony(notes) wants out of Denver, and World Wide Wes delivered that message to the Nuggets with all the delicacy of a jackhammer at Sunday morning services. Do yourself a favor and trade him, the agent told the organization weeks ago.

Carmelo Anthony has made it clear to the Nuggets he wants a change of scenery.

Denver was furnished with a short list of teams and told to get to work. Yes, this how William Wesley and Leon Rose of CAA work now, thick with threats and ultimatums and a swagger suggesting that the sport belongs to them. After Anthony told owner-in-waiting Josh Kroenke that he still wanted out of Denver during a Sunday meeting, the Nuggets appear done trying to sell their All-Star forward on a contract extension.

More From Adrian WojnarowskiKroenke's son tries to woo Anthony Aug 23, 2010 This wasn’t a productive, nor particularly pleasant, meeting and multiple sources said it could turn out to be the point of no return for Anthony and the organization. Sources insist it’s no longer a matter of if the Nuggets trade Anthony, but when, where and for whom he’s traded for.

“It’s almost a given they’re going to move him,” said a front-office executive who’s talked with the Nuggets and Anthony’s agents with CAA.

Between the agents’ bullying and Anthony’s dismissive disposition in Sunday’s meeting, sources said Nuggets owner Stan Kroenke, Josh’s father, finally made a stand with CAA.

Keep it up, and the Nuggets will never do a deal for one of your clients again.

Try to dictate terms of a trade and we won’t move him.

Keep up the heavy-handedness and you’ll get a war.

Kroenke has decided to deal with CAA in a way most of the league is too fearful to try. Leon Rose, the agent who works with Wesley, backed down, sources said, and is willing to be more open-minded on potential trade destinations. Anthony wants to leave Denver and get his three-year, $65 million contract extension now. This partnership is rounding third and rapidly reaching disrepair. Denver is willing to trade Anthony, J.R. Smith(notes) and Kenyon Martin(notes), and start over again, sources said.

The Nuggets made it clear to teams they want young players and draft picks for Anthony, league executives said. The New Jersey Nets and Los Angeles Clippers have emerged as the two most probable destinations for Anthony because they have assets that appeal to Denver. The geography works for Anthony because of his wife LaLa Vazquez’s entertainment career.

Golden State and Houston are contenders, too. What’s more, the Charlotte Bobcats are a sleeper because of Anthony’s Brand Jordan shoe deal and the team’s ability to give the Nuggets a salary-dump proposal.

Back in mid-July, the Kroenkes had to travel to New York for Anthony’s wedding to finally realize he no longer intended to sign their extension offer. The reception spiraled into an evening of Chris Paul(notes) and Anthony’s brother making toasts about a future partnership for Anthony and Paul in New York with the Knicks. With nothing to trade for Anthony, though, New York isn’t considered a strong contender in the eyes of Denver management.

Few can be as strong-minded and willful as Stan Kroenke, and it doesn’t matter the Nuggets will be turned over to his son Josh by the end of the year. Stan still will be lording over the franchise, and the billionaire has shown an old-school ability to carry through on his convictions once you’ve lost him as an ally.

With the way that CAA has tried to muscle and manipulate the market this summer, a source said Stan Kroenke, freshly approved as the St. Louis Rams owner, feels further emboldened in the NBA’s collective bargaining talks to push for a “franchise player” tag that teams could slap on superstars like the one the NFL uses. NBA owners are still far from seriously discussing that issue, but CAA’s manipulation of Anthony and Paul while under contract has become an increasingly sore subject within the league.

For now, the departure of Denver general manager Mark Warkentien and the increased influence of Kroenke advisor Bret Bearup means there won’t be much of a fight within the organization to stay the course with Anthony, sources said. Denver has hired Masai Ujiri as its new GM, but he doesn’t arrive with the authority to make major moves. Things have deteriorated too fast and grown too nasty to believe Denver will turn back now. ‘Melo is on the market, and the bidding has begun.

 

[mr. furley]

NBA threads are more confusing than bad beat poker threads

 

[Kev4029]

If this is the road Melo is going to take, I think they should definitely hold tight until the new CBA unless they could get something of real value for him.

 

[rabidfireweasel]

NBA threads are more confusing than bad beat poker threads

Come on, Furley.Bad beat poker threads aren't confusing at all. Sure they are terrible and annoying- but there is nothing confusing or surprising about misguided less intelligent people seeking affirmation on a message board. Plus, their goofy posts create a forum for Cunk to lay down his poker talk, which is always entertaining

 

[Kev4029]

Tried this trade in the trade machine this morning:

Denver trades Melo to the Nets

Nets trade Harris the Grizz, T Williams, Favors and Humphries to the Nuggets

Grizz trade Conley to the Nets and Gasol to the Nuggets

 

[mr. furley]

NBA threads are more confusing than bad beat poker threads

Come on, Furley.Bad beat poker threads aren't confusing at all. Sure they are terrible and annoying- but there is nothing confusing or surprising about misguided less intelligent people seeking affirmation on a message board. Plus, their goofy posts create a forum for Cunk to lay down his poker talk, which is always entertaining

 

[Kiddnets]

Tried this trade in the trade machine this morningenver trades Melo to the NetsNets trade Harris the Grizz, T Williams, Favors and Humphries to the NuggetsGrizz trade Conley to the Nets and Gasol to the Nuggets

I would do it as a Net fan but not sure the Grizz would move Gasol. I can see a pkg of Harris. Favors and picks involved - but as Denver does not really need a PG there may very well need to be a 3rd team involved

 

[Kev4029]

Tried this trade in the trade machine this morningenver trades Melo to the NetsNets trade Harris the Grizz, T Williams, Favors and Humphries to the NuggetsGrizz trade Conley to the Nets and Gasol to the Nuggets

I would do it as a Net fan but not sure the Grizz would move Gasol. I can see a pkg of Harris. Favors and picks involved - but as Denver does not really need a PG there may very well need to be a 3rd team involved

I think the Grizz would consider it because they have Conley, Gasol and Randolph all hitting free agency and won't want to pay them all Randolph and Gasol are probably both going to look for 10+ mill and Conley will probably look for similar money to Ray Felton. This gives them a top 12 pg in the league for 9 mill and frees up some conflict/money so they can sign Randolph and give Thabeet a chance.

 

[Walton Goggins]

I think all good news begins with Twitter; therefore, today shall be a glorious news day as this weekend was seemingly turbulent in NBA Twitter news. One of the NBA’s most prominent experts, John Hollinger, predicted that if Carmelo Anthony ends this upcoming season in a jersey other than the Nuggets’, he’ll end up in the ketchup and mustard of the Houston Rockets thanks to a three-way deal that he hypothesizes would send Aaron Brooks to the Charlotte Bobcats and Erick Dampier’s gigantic non-guaranteed deal to the Nuggets for cap relief. As trivial as this seems, it stands as probably the most realistic Melo/Rockets deal put forth (although he later amended it by saying the Rockets’ draft picks acquired in last year’s deal for Kevin Martin would probably go the way of the rockies as well).

 

[Abraham]

As a Rockets fan, I don't want Carmelo. We just got rid of a guy that was great at scoring and mediocre at winning. Then again, if the cost is low (like Brooks and a couple firsts) then I could be persuaded. I would hate to see them give up Scola/Budinger/Martin for Melo. Not to say those guys are his level of scorer, but they certainly fit in to the way Houston plays.

 

[Gr00vus]

For now, the departure of Denver general manager Mark Warkentien and the increased influence of Kroenke advisor Bret Bearup means there won’t be much of a fight within the organization to stay the course with Anthony, sources said. Denver has hired Masai Ujiri as its new GM, but he doesn’t arrive with the authority to make major moves. Things have deteriorated too fast and grown too nasty to believe Denver will turn back now. ‘Melo is on the market, and the bidding has begun.

Somebody's been working overtime with the phony name generator.

 

[wikkidpissah]

As a Rockets fan, I don't want Carmelo. We just got rid of a guy that was great at scoring and mediocre at winning. Then again, if the cost is low (like Brooks and a couple firsts) then I could be persuaded. I would hate to see them give up Scola/Budinger/Martin for Melo. Not to say those guys are his level of scorer, but they certainly fit in to the way Houston plays.

Dont think you have to worry. The only way the Nugs are going to get enough talent to trade Melo is if he signs a 3-yr max extension and i just dont see him doing that with anyone who isnt trying to put together a mega-team to compete with Miami. He was thiiiis close to re-upping with Denver til the whole Troika thing happened so, even though there are reports to the contrary, i have to believe he is looking to be a part of the same thing happening (esp if he develops a pipeline with CP3 on future plans, like Wade did with his boyz) in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Orlando. Melo's lived in The Shadow of the King his whole career and i dont see him going anywhere that wont put him in a situation to have another try at topping him.

 

[Major]

As a Rockets fan, I don't want Carmelo. We just got rid of a guy that was great at scoring and mediocre at winning. Then again, if the cost is low (like Brooks and a couple firsts) then I could be persuaded. I would hate to see them give up Scola/Budinger/Martin for Melo. Not to say those guys are his level of scorer, but they certainly fit in to the way Houston plays.

:cosign:

 

[No. 16]

When Carmelo Anthony didn't immediately jump at the chance to sign a three-year, $65 million contract extension with the Nuggets this summer, rumors began to spread that maybe he wasn't all that thrilled about staying in Denver beyond next season.

Those rumors now hold more truth, thanks to a report from Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports that says Anthony and his agent have told the team in no uncertain terms that he wants out.

And at this point, even the "next season" part appears to be in serious jeopardy.

According to the report, Anthony's representatives, William Wesley and Leon Rose, had told Nuggets' ownership that they'd be better off trading the team's best player weeks ago. Anthony echoed those sentiments in a meeting on Sunday, one that apparently went so poorly that it may have solidified his future in Denver -- or lack thereof.

"This wasn't a productive, nor particularly pleasant, meeting and multiple sources said it could turn out to be the point of no return for Anthony and the organization. Sources insist it's no longer a matter of if the Nuggets trade Anthony, but when, where and for whom he's traded for," Wojnarowski wrote.

Anthony effectively demanding to be dealt out of town comes at a strange time for the organization. Before head coach George Karl was forced out of action due to undergoing throat cancer treatment late last season, the Nuggets appeared to be the team best suited to challenge the Lakers in the Western Conference. Without Karl there, however, Denver limped to the regular-season finish line, and the club was unceremoniously bounced out of the playoffs in the first round at the hands of the Utah Jazz.

Now, after parting ways with former Executive of the Year Mark Warkentien and just recently hiring former Raptors executive Masai Ujiri, the team is faced with potentially being forced to completely rebuild the franchise if they end up trading Anthony for nothing more than young talent and draft picks.

It's very similar to what took place in Phoenix this offseason, with Steve Kerr and David Griffin resigning after Kerr and Suns owner Robert Sarver couldn't come to an agreement on a new contract. The Suns were left without any tenured front office leadership to guide them through the tricky Amar'e Stoudemire free-agency period, and once Amar'e left for NYC and the max contract that he deserved, the team that finished last season just two games from the Finals was left with a former agent in Lon Babby scrambling to replace Stoudemire with the likes of Hedo Turkoglu, Josh Childress and Hakim Warrick.

With untested front-office leadership in Denver, there's no telling how this will turn out for the Nuggets. Anthony reportedly gave the team a short list of his preferred destinations, which included the Nets, Clippers, Warriors, Rockets and Bobcats -- all teams that have some combination of young pieces and picks that the Nuggets might convince themselves is enough in return for Anthony.

But in all reality, it won't be. And a team that was seemingly on the rise to the level of legitimate contender a season ago might start this next campaign in a significantly worse position.

First time I heard the Warriors in the mix. As a Warrior fan I'd honestly rather have Ellis + Biedrins over Melo as I'd assume that the Warriors would want to move Ellis to make Melo the primary scorer and Denver would like to add a young 10/10 big man with their injury troubles. That trade could go through as is, but I assume Denver would want some type of draft picks and I honestly don't think Melo is worth that type of haul. He's a volume but clutch scorer, average rebounder, and pretty much average to below average in the rest of his game. The Nuggets didn't become contenders until they added Billups.

 

[saintfool]

First time I heard the Warriors in the mix. As a Warrior fan I'd honestly rather have Ellis + Biedrins over Melo as I'd assume that the Warriors would want to move Ellis to make Melo the primary scorer and Denver would like to add a young 10/10 big man with their injury troubles. That trade could go through as is, but I assume Denver would want some type of draft picks and I honestly don't think Melo is worth that type of haul. He's a volume but clutch scorer, average rebounder, and pretty much average to below average in the rest of his game. The Nuggets didn't become contenders until they added Billups.

i think it's a problem most teams would love to have. the fact of the matter is that carmelo is a player that responds to coaching. billups brought real leadership to the nuggets. he and karl know how to handle carmelo. any team that trades for carmelo better have the right coach in place because he's just going to disappoint otherwise. he could easily step up his game for the right team and coach. i think there are only a couple of coaches and teams that have the right mix to get the most out of carmelo.

 

[Captain Quinoa]

Anthony reportedly gave the team a short list of his preferred destinations, which included the Nets, Clippers, Warriors, Rockets and Bobcats --

Is he some sort of masochist??

 

[Wooderson]

On my drive in this morning my local guys were saying the Kings have a chance at Melo. Saying they could give Denver cap relief with Dampier and Landry. My guess is they were just trying to generate calls. But I would be cool with Melo, Tyreke and Cousins all playing with the Kings.

 

[Gr00vus]

Bulls interested in Anthony? Talking about dealing Noah and Deng for Anthony. Says Nuggs about taking Deng's contract. I'm not sure this deal makes the Bulls better.

 

[Bob Lee Swagger]

Bulls interested in Anthony? Talking about dealing Noah and Deng for Anthony. Says Nuggs about taking Deng's contract. I'm not sure this deal makes the Bulls better.

Wouldn't be happy with that deal as a Bulls fan.

 

[Kev4029]

Bulls interested in Anthony? Talking about dealing Noah and Deng for Anthony. Says Nuggs about taking Deng's contract. I'm not sure this deal makes the Bulls better.

Wouldn't be happy with that deal as a Bulls fan.

Yeah, I can't see why the Bulls would want to trade their middle of the pack (as starters) center and(over paid) small forward for a top 5 player.

 

[No. 16]

Bulls interested in Anthony? Talking about dealing Noah and Deng for Anthony. Says Nuggs about taking Deng's contract. I'm not sure this deal makes the Bulls better.

Wouldn't be happy with that deal as a Bulls fan.

Yeah, I can't see why the Bulls would want to trade their middle of the pack (as starters) center and(over paid) small forward for a top 5 player.

Melo is just a volume scorer. He's Kobe Bryant minus the defense and can you believe it, Melo's a bigger black hole. He's the SF version of Amare Stoudemire... guys who get accolades for their scoring, but aren't multi-faceted enough to be a centerpiece for a Championship team.Sorry, but I'll take the young C who can guard almost every big man in the NBA, provides, hustle, toughness, and the machismo needed to win a Championship.

The Bulls just need a scorer from the wing position and there are plenty of other players in the NBA who can score and much more efficiently as well. If I were the Bulls I would've tried to trade for players like Kevin Martin, Corey Maggette, Jamal Crawford as vets or going after a young player like Marcus Thornton would make them a more complete team without sacrificing Noah.

 

[Juxtatarot]

Bulls interested in Anthony? Talking about dealing Noah and Deng for Anthony. Says Nuggs about taking Deng's contract. I'm not sure this deal makes the Bulls better.

Wouldn't be happy with that deal as a Bulls fan.

Yeah, I can't see why the Bulls would want to trade their middle of the pack (as starters) center and(over paid) small forward for a top 5 player.

Noah is widely considered an above average center.

 

[Courtjester]

And I can't see the Nuggets wanting Deng's contract with the ??? surrounding next year labor issues.

 

[cubd8]

I highly doubt that the Bulls trade for Anthony. They are notorious for favoring their core group of players and right now Noah and Rose are the core of this team (along with Boozer). I don't see them trading him in a package deal even for Anthony. I also doubt that Denver wants Luol Deng's contract back. About the only thing working here is that the Bulls have a young PF in Taj Gibson who looks like a player and 2 first round draft picks for next year so they have a base to offer up something, but Deng's contract is the stumbling block.

 

[Kev4029]

I highly doubt that the Bulls trade for Anthony. They are notorious for favoring their core group of players and right now Noah and Rose are the core of this team (along with Boozer). I don't see them trading him in a package deal even for Anthony. I also doubt that Denver wants Luol Deng's contract back. About the only thing working here is that the Bulls have a young PF in Taj Gibson who looks like a player and 2 first round draft picks for next year so they have a base to offer up something, but Deng's contract is the stumbling block.

I would put money on the new Nuggets GM ####### this all up by taking on a bad contract like Deng's. He's a rookie GM with tons of pressure to fix this problem, and he was the assistant GM in Toronto for the last few years. The Raptors haven't given out a good contract, made a good draft pick or really done anything right since they drafed Bosh, I think he learned from one of the least succesful GMs in sports I since the Lions dumped Matt Millen a few years back. I figure he's had some say on all these personel choices that Colangelo has made.