Report: Carmelo Anthony struggling to choose between Chicago and New York

Now that LeBron James has made his decision–he’s headed home–all eyes are on his 2003 draft mate Carmelo Anthony.

After mulling through free agent meetings, the decision has reportedly come down to the New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls. But according to Stephen A. Smith who recently appeared on SportsCenter, the seven-time All-Star is struggling to make his decision.

Before the week began it was reported by the New York Daily News that Carmelo Anthony had made his decision–he was returning to the New York Knicks. But after a bullrush of recruitment from Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau, it seems Anthony found himself mulling over each offer.

No one knows what changed from then until now. It’s possible the Chicago Bulls have mentioned to Carmelo Anthony that they’re willing to offer something closer to the max in comparison to what they offered him the first go-round (something near $15 million). With money being a high priority for Anthony despite what he utters to the public, the finances of the initial offering may be enough for Melo to not even consider Chicago despite the winning situation they’d provide him–the best of his entire career.

Carmelo Anthony is his own man and with a decision this important, it’s imperative that he take his time. But the longer he takes, the more it feels like he’s mentally preparing himself and his family for a big change.