Carmelo Anthony rumors: Tom Thibodeau has the Chicago Bulls back in the mix
When star forward Carmelo Anthony opted out of his contract with the New York Knicks, many perceived the Chicago Bulls as the favorites to land Anthony.
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Although they can’t compete with the Knicks in terms of money, they have an excellent roster with the likes of big men Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson, a solid young swingman in Jimmy Butler and a former league MVP in point guard Derrick Rose. The Bulls severely need scoring, which Anthony would obviously provide and the Bulls could mask some of Anthony’s defensive deficiencies.
However, it looked like the Bulls were out of the mix and Anthony would likely return to the Knicks or sign with the Los Angeles Lakers. Now, the Bulls appear to be right back in the thick of things.
According to Mike McGraw of the Daily Herald, the Bulls are back in the mix for Anthony because of head coach Tom Thibodeau.
Hearing Tom Thibodeau is playing a major role in keeping Carmelo Anthony interested in Bulls.
— Mike McGraw (@McGrawDHSports) July 10, 2014
#Bulls trying to figure out how to close. If Carmelo has been agonizing for more than a week, who knows where this will go.
— Mike McGraw (@McGrawDHSports) July 11, 2014
Don't think there's been any sign-and-trade talks. #Bulls need Carmelo to commit first, which could get that ball rolling.
— Mike McGraw (@McGrawDHSports) July 11, 2014
Hearing the Stephen A. Smith report is accurate. Carmelo may have been leaning elsewhere, but regained interest in #Bulls.
— Mike McGraw (@McGrawDHSports) July 11, 2014
Anthony put up 27.4 points, 8.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game and shot 45.2% from the field, 40.2% from beyond the arc and 84.8% from the free throw line last season.