Melo May Be Costly Lesson For Knicks
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By DERON SNYDER
No one would suggest that Carmelo Anthony is equal to or better than LeBron James (except maybe Melo himself), and no would suggest that the New York Knicks had a shot at beating the Miami Heat. But looking at the superstars and their respective teams can be instructive for would-be players and wanna-be general managers.
First, remember that the Knicks didn’t want Anthony as much as he wanted them. He was the consolation prize after New York went all-in during the “Summer of LeBron” tour in 2010. The Knicks reportedly had James Gandolfini reprise his role as Tony Soprano for a recruiting video, knowing that James is a huge fan of the HBO series. The pitch also included testimonials from Willis Reed, Mark Messier, Reggie Jackson and Earl Monroe. Famous New Yorkers Spike Lee, Rudy Giuliani and Chris Rock took part as well.
When James made his “Decision” to join Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh on South Beach, the Knicks‘ fate was sealed, seemingly along with the rest of the Eastern Conference. The Knicks responded by granting Anthony’s wish and bringing him to New York at the following trade deadline, sending four players, three draft picks and $3 million to Denver in exchange.
After watching the Knicks go 1-8 in two first-round playoff series with Anthony, including the series against Miami that concluded Wednesday, it appears that New York got snookered.
