NBA Rumors: Why Carmelo Anthony should opt in

Apr 2, 2014; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) shoots over Brooklyn Nets forward Alan Anderson (6) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 2, 2014; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) shoots over Brooklyn Nets forward Alan Anderson (6) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Knicks’ forward Carmelo Anthony has been at the center of attention for most of the season and now that he has the ability to become an unrestricted free agent, the NBA will soon circle around the talented scorer once again.

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Anthony has the ability to opt out of the final year of his deal. Knicks’ president Phil Jackson has asked Anthony to think about opting in and Anthony is going to consider that option.

Although most players have until June 30 to decide whether or not to opt in or out, Anthony will have to make his decision by June 23.

Marc Berman of The New York Post believes it would be in the best interest of Anthony and the Knicks if he opts in.

"James? He made it clear early he wouldn’t talk about free agency and made good on that promise, among others. Even after Cleveland won the lottery last week, James shut down speculation on his Ohio return by saying he couldn’t care less about draft lotteries now.Whatever the reasons Jackson has for asking Anthony to delay free agency — it will give the franchise a better idea on what kind of paycut he would need to take — Anthony should listen and take out an insurance policy. It’s not as if interested parties Chicago and Houston, knocked out in Round 1, are banging on the championship door."

Anthony averaged 27.4 points, 8.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game last season and shot 45.2% from the field, 40.2% from beyond the arc and 84.8% from the free throw line.