Getting the Melo Fellow?

Carmelo Anthony may be battling to box out Joakim Noah now, but could he soon be clearing way under the basket so Noah can get those boards?  That's the question on a lot of people's minds right now in Chicago.  After the indication that the Bulls were more in play for Anthony this offeseason than the Lakers, the rumor brewed up to the point where it took on a life of its own.  Now, Anthony himself is being asked about it, but he has predictably pushed it off to the side so he can concentrate on helping the Knicks win right now.

Obviously, other moves would have to be made in order to make this work.  Carlos Boozer would need to be amnestied and one of either Noah or Taj Gibson would have to be dealt, freeing up the cap space that could fulfill Anthony's salary he could make if he signs anywhere other than New York this summer.  Whatever it takes for the Bulls to land the defending scoring champion is a must for people like Charles Barkley, who considers it a good way for the team will be able to stay relevant for the next few years.  Yes, Derrick Rose's knees are more important, Barkley says, but this would help.

While I'd appreciate the services of Anthony in Chicago, I think he'd need to change in a couple ways.  First, a career average of 3.1 assists is a little low for a player of his stature in my opinion.  He's been known to put scoring above all other facets of his game and I don't know if Tom Thibodeau would welcome someone who's a little one-sided.  Second, and most importantly, he needs to rid himself of all the drama he's been known to cause.  He had a messy exit in Denver and now, he's not completely happy in New York.  It has to be contributing to the downfall of a Knicks team with a lot of winning talent, but coupled with injuries, is trying to stay in the playoff picture.

If there's one thing the Bulls organization won't stand, it's a lack of unity among the players.  Yes, there have been quite a few quarrels between the front office and coaching staff in recent years, but the roster is able to win together because they put aside all personal agendas except to win.  Anthony must be willing to accept that if he ends up signing here.  Unfortunately, he's been in the league long enough that I don't think he's going to completely change.  Empty promises do not sit well anywhere and I think that's what it would all come down to.

A lot can happen between now and July, but until then, take the rumor for just what it is.  There's going to be plenty of conversation for topics like this and here's another example.  Worry about that when the time comes and keep the focus on winning games now.