NBA Rumors: Golden State Warriors after Carmelo Anthony

On Tuesday night, a report surfaced that the Golden State Warriors may soon trade power forward David Lee in an effort to try to clear cap space and potentially find a replacement for guard Klay Thompson. If the Warriors truly want to land a superstar like Minnesota Timberwolves’ power forward Kevin Love, they will probably have to part ways with Thompson.

One team that has emerged as a candidate to take on Lee’s contract is the Orlando Magic, who could offer a viable replacement for Thompson in Arron Afflalo. In that scenario, the Warriors would have a very good starting shooting guard alongside Stephen Curry and could deal Thompson.

However, the Magic are unlikely to deal for Lee and the Warriors remain a long shot to acquire Love. Although Love is probably a better fit, if the Warriors do indeed miss on Love, they could make a run at New York Knicks’ forward Carmelo Anthony, according to Marcus Thompson of The San Jose Mercury News.

"If Love goes elsewhere, which is likely, the Warriors could package Lee and Thompson to get someone like Carmelo Anthony, then try to pull off a separate deal to get Afflalo. He plays both ends and he can shoot the 3. Plus, Love and GM Bob Myers would welcome another Bruin to the mix."

The Knicks would probably have to take back Lee, so this seems like an even bigger long shot than the Knicks acquiring Love.