NBA Trade Rumors 2014: Carmelo Anthony-For-Blake Griffin Swap Discussed By New York Knicks, LA Clippers

The New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly mulling a potential trade involving star forwards Carmelo Anthony and Blake Griffin.

ESPN reported that the impending free agency of Anthony is forcing the Knicks to look for possible moves, and sources said that the Anthony-for-Griffin swap is their top priority.

The Clippers, on the other hand, are also looking for ways to improve their roster. Sources said that the Clippers discussed the possibility of trading Griffin for Anthony, but they have yet to decide whether or not to pull the trigger on the blockbuster deal.

One factor that is allegedly making the Clippers think twice is the recent performances of the 24-year-old Griffin, who is averaging 22.1 points and 10.6 rebounds this season. In his last 10 games, the high-flying forward tallied 27.0 points to go along with 11.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists.

Anthony's impending free agency is not an issue with the Clippers, who are confident that Anthony will re-sign with them next summer if a deal will be consummated before the deadline.

Anthony made it no secret that he wants to play with Clippers point guard Chris Paul during his final days in Denver in 2010. Sources said that both players are still aching to play together on one team to contend for the title that has been very elusive to both of them.

The Knicks, on the other hand, are still remaining optimistic that Anthony will decide to stay with the team, but Anthony remains mum on his plans.

But with the current dismal performance of the Knicks, recent rumors suggested that the chances of Anthony leaving the Knicks is getting higher with the realization that that he may not be able to win a title in New York.

The current situation is forcing the Knicks to consider other options, but Anthony still has control even if the Knicks decide to trade him.

Interested teams are not expected to pull off a trade for Anthony without getting a longterm commitment from the reigning NBA scoring champion.

In 2010, Anthony asked the Nuggets to trade him to the Knicks - a request that was eventually granted since the Nuggets did not want to lose him via free agency for nothing. Aside from the Clippers, Anthony is also reportedly willing to play for the Los Angeles Lakers and the Chicago Bulls.