NBA Free Agents 2014: Joakim Noah Makes Chicago Bulls Pitch to Carmelo Anthony, Derrick Rose Plans to Recruit Melo

Joakim Noah reportedly made a pitch to Carmelo Anthony during the 2014 NBA All-Star Weekend, trying to convince the New York Knicks superstar to join the Chicago Bulls this offseason.

According to ESPN's Chris Broussard, Noah talked to Anthony about the chances of winning their first NBA title if they join forces in Chicago next season.

Sources said that Noah told Anthony that he will have the best chance of winning his first NBA championship if he decides to take his talents to Chicago this summer, adding that he won't get the same opportunity if he decides to stay with the New York Knicks or sign with other teams.

Anthony allegedly responded positively to Noah's pitch, telling the All-Star center that he loves how the Bulls are playing this season despite the injuries that have hit the team, particularly after losing star point guard Derrick Rose.

Sources also indicated that the conversation between Noah and Anthony started when Anthony asked Noah about what it feels like playing under Bulls head coach Tim Thibodeau.

"The sources said Noah told Anthony something to this effect: You can go to Los Angeles, but if you really want a ring, if you really want your legacy to be about winning, you should come to Chicago," ESPN noted. "Anthony responded by telling Noah that he admires how hard the Bulls play and how hungry they are."

Broussard also added that Rose, who is expected to be ready to play in time for next season, is also planning to talk to Anthony this summer about the possibility of signing with the Bulls.

"I'm told D-Rose would love for Melo to join Bulls as well. If Bulls ask Rose to help recruit, he will," Broussard posted on his Twitter account.

Chicago is allegedly one of Anthony's preferred destinations if he decides to leave the Knicks this offseason. The Bulls will have to clear up cap space in order to offer an enticing deal to the 29-year-old superstar.

The Bulls are expected to waive Carlos Boozer via amnesty this summer. The move will put Boozer's $16.8 million salary off the Bulls' books, but it will still not be enough to offer a max deal to Anthony, leaving the Bulls with no other choice but to part ways with Taj Gibson or Mike Dunleavy this summer.