Nets and Nuggets Resume Trade Talks for Anthony

Trade talks between the New Jersey Nets and Denver Nuggets for Carmelo Anthony have resumed. The teams almost reached a deal last month, but it is said that the current deal is structured differently. The new deal will not involve the Detroit Pistons and will involve fewer than 13 players.

While Anthony's desire to play for the New York Knicks is no secret, the Nuggets like what the Nets can offer in return for a trade.  Namely they like rookie Derrick Favors and the multiple first round draft picks the Nets have. Even if the two teams agree in principle to a deal, the decision ultimately comes down to Anthony. The Nets likely won't agree to the deal unless he signs a contract extension first. If he opts not to sign the extension, he could stay in Denver and become a free agent at the end of the season.

For the Knicks part, they are running the risk of frustrating Anthony. Their refusal to make a deal involving primarily role players may leave him feeling slighted and not wanted by the Knicks. Anthony's biggest risk in becoming a free agent is the new collective bargaining agreement. Without an extension, he could lose millions of dollars under new guidelines.

The Nets most recent move could be less about getting Anthony than weakening the Knicks. If the Nets get Anthony, they are a better team for it, but if the Nets can force the Knicks to give up a large portion of their team, then they have managed to weaken an opponent.