In today's Knicks rumors and news update, LeBron James' reported demand for a max contract could end up dooming his potential partnership with New York Knicks free agent Carmelo Anthony.
According to ESPN's Ian Begley, in order for the Miami Heat (the most likely landing spot for James) to realistically sign Anthony, "all three of its stars would have to accept deals with first-year salaries of approximately $14 million. This would allow the Heat to offer Anthony a contract starting at $14 million."
With current reports indicating that Wade could accept $12 million and Bosh could take $11 million, that still leaves just $32 million in cap space for Miami.
Subtract James' desired $22.2 million salary, and you have less than $10 million for Anthony - a complete no-go in all likelihood.
Other landing spots such as the Lakers and Rockets could feasibly maneuver things around to make the financial commitment to the duo work - however, James' desired price tag would still require an extreme pay cut on Anthony's end.
Therefore, the oft-rumored super-pairing could very well be off the table. If so, the Knicks' chances of retaining Melo should increase significantly.
Unless Anthony is completely blown away on one of his recruiting trips, a new regime and smart offseason so far for the Knicks organization could be enough to bring Melo back on a max deal.
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