NBA Trade Rumors: Chicago Bulls Could Send Luol Deng, Taj Gibson, More to New York Knicks for Carmelo Anthony
The Carmelo Anthony trade rumors just won't die. On Sunday, another trade speculation around the reigning scoring champion gained significant buzz on several sports forums, and it's all about a potential blockbuster deal between the New York Knicks and the Chicago Bulls.
As Anthony prepares to become a free agent for the first time in his career, rumors about Melo's potential destinations keep on coming. Reports indicated that Melo remains interested in resigning with the Knickerbockers next summer. But in case things won't end up well for the Knicks this season, there are reportedly three teams that have a legitimate shot in the Melo sweepstakes. These teams are the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and the Bulls.
Among those three teams, the Bulls appear to be most enticing trade partner for the Knicks because of their ability to send an enticing haul of talents in exchange for the high-scoring forward. Moreover, Melo also has a lot of respect for Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau.
"The Bulls would intrigue Anthony, too, because he has a lot of respect for coach Tom Thibodeau, according to a source," via Marc Berman of New York Post.
Melo Running With the Bulls
According to Sheridan Hoops, the Bulls would be an ideal destination for Anthony because it allows him to play with a contender, and at the same time, promote his brands in a big market.
But for the trade to materialize, the Bulls front office has to sacrifice Luol Deng, Taj Gibson and the rights for European prospect Nikola Mirotic or a first round pick in exchange for Anthony.
Though it would be hard for the Bulls front office to let Mirotic walk away, Sheridan Hoops believed the European baller's problematic buyout issue with his current club is enough reason for him to be moved. If they hold onto him, they can still trade their first round pick in next year's loaded draft.
"Getting Gar Forman to give up the rights to Mirotic will not be an easy task; he is widely considered the top NBA prospect in Europe but also has buyout issues that could be problematic. He is under contract in Spain through 2016-17 with a buyout of more than $3 million," Sheridan Hoops reported.
Moving forward, the Bulls would have two dynamic superstars in Rose and Anthony as they look to contend for the title right away. Meanwhile, the Knicks would have a nice foundation for the future, with Deng (if resigned), Gibson, and possibly Mirotic on their roster.