The New York Knicks are eying free agent Delonte West for one of its remaining roster spots. Meanwhile, Carmelo Anthony declined to commit to the Knicks beyond this season, lending to the possibility next summer that he opts out for another team.
New York is considering signing West. The team has talked to his representatives, but has not offered a contract, according to ESPN's sources.
Knicks general manager Glen Grunswald said recently he is considering adding a backup guard and a big man. With three roster spots available, signing West would provide depth at the guard position.
West, 30, last played in the NBA during the 2011-12 season for the Dallas Mavericks. He played in eight games last season for Dallas' D-League team, the Texas Legends. West has a career average of 9.7 points, 3.6 assists and 2.9 rebounds per game.
As the Knicks look to add for this season, the team could find itself next summer in a battle to retain its star, Carmelo Anthony. The 29-year-old All-Star can opt out of his contract after this season, and he dodged a recent question about his future in New York.
ESPN asked if this season would determine whether he remains in New York.
"It's a big year," he said, seemingly deflecting the question. "A huge upcoming season for me, as a team and an organization."
Asked again, Anthony said: "I can't do that. It's too tough right now."
It's not the most promising answer for New York fans. The Los Angeles Lakers are also interested in Anthony, along with LeBron James, for next summer. Anthony did, however, dismiss any idea he was plotting to jump ship to the Lakers.
When asked last week by TMZ if he could see himself in Los Angeles, Anthony said, "I doubt it."
New York isn't obsolete, especially with the signings of J.R. Smith, Metta World Peace and Andrea Bargnani. But the Lakers would have the money to pay Anthony and, depending entirely on its free agency moves next summer, could potentially offer Anthony a more competitive supporting cast.
This season is important, and it could be Anthony's last in New York if the team doesn't make a deeper playoff run.
